---

Trees outside the Forest (TOF) are vital resources with functions similar to those of forest trees such as environmental, economic and social services. They also help to reduce pressure on natural forests as alternative sources of tree products. However, these trees have been threatened by different forms of human disturbances. This book presents an analysis of the influence of land use categories (LUC) on the patterns and distribution of TOF in the Sio River Basin. The findings may serve as a pointer towards sustainable utilization of the resources in Sio river basin as well as other river basins with similar situations. The results indicate that TOF are closely related to LUC, suggesting that the distribution of TOF is affected by land use systems. Competition between trees and food crops for space is what discouraged most farmers from planting trees on their farms. Some income generating and crop-friendly trees are grown in croplands. Majority of TOF are indigenous species that either are spared or have sprout. This book demonstrates that TOF are purposely grown and maintained.

---

RAPHAEL M KWEYU, MSc, Studied Biogeography at Kenyatta university, Part time Lecturer of Geography at Kenyatta University, Nairobi.

---