This paper shares experiences from the management, production,
and commercialization of handicrafts made of cane and bamboo in
a remote area of Bhutan called Bjoka. These handicrafts contribute
to almost 70% of the annual monetary income of the area’s farmers.
The paper emphasizes the importance of a community-based
management of these common resources through formation of such
a community group, sustainable management of the resources, and
governance of the community group itself. An overview is given of
the assessment (inventory) process of both products and provides
lessons on management based on the traditional knowledge of
the farmers. The case study concludes that bamboo and cane
are essential for the poorest communities in this remote area.
The formation of a community group has been essential for the
sustainable management of the resources and has strengthened
local people’s bargaining power in price negotiations with traders. It is
also highlighted that the success of community-based management
depends on the functioning of the group supported by its bylaws.