Overview of the use of timber in construction of small and medium-sized buildings during humanitarian operations.  Timber is defined as wood from all trees and, for the purposes of this set of guidelines, also includes bamboo.  The document provides information on selecting, specifying, procuring, using, and distributing timber and simple tools to facilitate decision-making at various stages of construction.  

This handbook details UNHCR’s guidelines for forest management in refugee situations based on lessons learned from the field. With a particular focus on humid and dry tropical regions, the handbook promotes the increased involvement of refugees and local communities in decision-making and management of forest resources. Background information on forests and their role in ecosystem functioning; key issues and concerns of forest management and refugee-assistance programs; and a series of practical actions for initial damage control measures, supply management, and environmental rehabilitation are discussed. In addition, steps are prescribed for the development of a local forest management plan.