Five years of research have increased our understanding of the effects
of disturbances on some forest processes and given directions for for
est management in Guyana. At present most logging concentrates on Chlo
rocardium rodiei (greenheart) and current practices are damaging, but
they may have little effect on the overall water balance and nutrient
cycle if some simple rules are adhered to. The basic research results
do not lead to a fully documented sustainable forest management system
, as translation to practical management is not always simple. In gene
ral it would appear that applied research may give fast results in an
often quick and dirty approach. Basic research, if directed at the rig
ht forest processes, may provide answers when the quick and dirty appr
oach does not fulfil its objectives. As such they are complementary. I
n tropical forest management we cannot wait until basic research provi
des all answers leading to proper forest management, and a combination
of the two would probably provide most answers in the long term.