WP 3 - Objectives

Document the diversity and abundance of palm uses, the importance and value of palm products in local communities, the intensities of resource use, and estimate future needs and of these products locally and throughout northwestern South America.

Specific objectives: 1. Document the diversity, abundance and patterns of palm uses and their vernacular names among indigenous and mestizo (Spanish speaking of mixed ancestry) communities. 2. Evaluate the uses of palms in terms of subsistence and exchange and incipient trade of products in and among specific communities. 3. Assess local people’s perceptions regarding the production of palms, the application of palm materials vs. other materials, and estimate future demands and responses to diminishing provisions.