Analytic Hierarchy Process and Benefit Cost Analysis for the Selection of Suitable Eucalypt Re-Establishment Methods: A Case Study in Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa

Deciding which re-establishment methods to apply has become increasingly complex due to the expanding range of options and the numerous criteria that need to be fulfilled to support any chosen options. The objective of this study was to develop a decision model for the selection of the best method to perform different re-establishment activities, based on stakeholder preferences. The Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) was used in conjunction with Benefit Cost analysis to facilitate the process of selecting the best re-establishment method. Results from the case study carried out in Kwazulu-Natal on eucalypt re-establishment showed that the mechanized and semi-mechanized re-establishment alternatives were best for all criteria assessed, except for cost efficiency, where manual methods offered improved financial returns.