The US Forest Service at the request of USAID/Liberia conducted a gap analysis of four key domestic
natural resource markets in Liberia: timber, charcoal, bushmeat and other non-timber forest products
(NTFPs). Given that Liberia’s forest is mostly perceived by Government of Liberia decision makers as
valuable because of timber exports and potential conversion to large scale agricultural concessions,
having an accurate estimate of the value of these associated resources is vital for effective management
of natural resources in general. Within Liberia, however, there are robust national and subnational
markets for timber, charcoal, bushmeat, and other NTFPs. These domestic markets impact the forests
and biodiversity and contribute to the economy in ways that are poorly understood.
In collaboration with colleagues from the Forestry Development Authority (FDA), the US Forest Service
team conducted interviews, collected data including reports, baseline assessments, and anecdotal
information in order to analyze the quality and quantity of data available related to the extent and value
of the natural resources identified above. The team set out to meet with all relevant actors currently
undertaking timber and non-timber forest product use activities to include private sector, NGOs and
government institutions including domestic and international stakeholders. By working closely with
colleagues from the FDA, the US Forest Service aimed to identify gaps in information and analysis that
are needed to provide up to date information to the Government of Liberia and other interested
stakeholders while building capacity for the FDA to carry out similar activities in the future.
Based on the analysis of these meetings and reports, the team developed a set of recommendations to
fill gaps in knowledge, where necessary, as to provide means of building or improving human and
institutional capacity for data collection and management. Findings and recommendations for follow on
support are detailed in this report along with estimated budgets, timelines and likely partnerships that
can support specific activities.