The development potential of multipurpose trees in northern Bandung special area as alternative for sustainable land use in upstream area

Abstract

Northern Bandung is Strategic Area of West Java which has important function and role in environmental sustainability of Bandung Basin. Currently, land utilization in that area is uncontrolled. It threatens the sustainability function of conservation area, since its function as watersheds, then cause various natural disasters such as erosion, landslides, and floods in the downstream areas. This study aimed to determine the potential of Northern Bandung as a Multipurpose Trees Special (MPTS) area and as an alternative to sustainable land use in upstream area. The research was done by field survey and Focus Group Discussion (FGD). The results showed that Northern Bandung is grouped into four cultivation areas, namely: (1) Dryland Cultivation Areas (DCA), (2) Annual Plant Cultivation Areas (APCA), (3) Plantation Cultivation Areas (PCA) and (4) Conservation Area (CA). The MPTS area can be developed in DCA, APCA and PCA with area of approximately 11,924 ha. The development of MPTS Agricultural Area must consider the area characteristics by selecting environmentally friendly and sustainable cultivation technology. Alternative cultivation technologies which could be developed such as: 1) Mix Cropping pattern Technology Coffee Plants with Annual Plant, and 2) Mix Cropping pattern Technology Coffee Plants, Annual Plants and Seasonal Plants.