Feasibility of Small Scale Commercial Native Plant Harvests by Indigenous Communities
Feasibility of Small Scale Commercial Native Plant Harvests by Indigenous Communities Report
Publication. No 04/149
- Author(s): Whitehead, PJ., Gorman, J., Griffiths, AD., Wightman, G., Massarella, H., Altman, J.
- Tertiary Author(s): Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation
- Published: 2006
- Publisher: Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation
Abstract: Indigenous people in remote Australia face many challenges in developing viable resource-based industries. Transplanting industries and practices from elsewhere will not necessarily provide workable solutions for these communities, which confront the hurdles of distance and scarce access to infrastructure, capital, land and training for new skills. This research worked with Indigenous communities in the Northern Territory to explore the feasibility of developing small-scale enterprises based on harvesting of plant material in remote Aboriginal communities. The project investigated the basis for selection of plant products and undertook case studies on selective harvests, including evaluation of transport and collection costs, and potential markets. This report presents results of the consultations with communities, and outcomes of the case studies. It provides recommendations for enterprise development to address ecological, social, economic and marketing issues, training and education, as well as recommendations and concerns raised by the aboriginal peoples consulted and involved in the case studies. Specific objectives of the project were to: • identify potential market opportunities for plant products suited to harvest in remote communities with limited infrastructure • examine cultural appropriateness of commercial harvesting of a range of native plants • assess ecological and other land management implications of potential and existing harvests • develop community-based strategies for improved realisation of commercial opportunities.
- Urls: https://www.agrifutures.com.au/wp-content/uploads/publications/04-149.pdf
- Publisher Location: Canberra