Bridging Farmers’ Perceptions and Preferences for Economic Sustainability: Developing an Agroforestry Prototype in Private Forests in Bogor Regency , Indonesia

The ASEAN nations and the Indonesian government prioritize sustainable development through programs on water, energy, food, conservation, and climate change mitigation. Developing agroforestry in private forests holds strategic potential to enhance sustainable forestry and strengthen rural economies. Farmers' perceptions and preferences regarding agroforestry management are crucial for improving program outcomes. This study aims to develop an agroforestry prototype in private forests by integrating farmer perceptions and preferences with financial considerations. In Situdaun Village, Bogor Regency, West Java, Indonesia, we collected data through interviews utilizing a questionnaire. Subsequently, we conducted an analysis using descriptive statistics, Likert scale relative frequencies, and a financial feasibility assessment. The study findings indicate that farmers' perceptions and preferences are appropriate for agroforestry development. The economic viability of this agroforestry model is essential for farmers' well-being and ecological sustainability. Agroforestry aligns with the land maximization approach, enhancing the restoration of degraded land and forests, supplying bioenergy, and reducing GHG emissions. We recommend efficient extension services to enhance farmers' institutional capacity, strengthened by government programs and policies to address livelihood requirements, incentive schemes, human capital development, stakeholder engagement for implementing the agroforestry prototype, and downstream processes, alongside developing community-based land and forest rehabilitation initiatives.