Mather, A. S., and C. L. Needle. 1998. "The forest transition: a theoretical basis." Area 30 (2):117-124. doi: doi:10.1111/j.1475-4762.1998.tb00055.x.
Abstract:Summary A theoretical basis for the forest transition (the change from contraction to expansion of national forest area) is suggested in terms of increasing agricultural adjustment to land quality. This adjustment, operating through a process of learning by farmers, results in the concentration of agricultural production in smaller areas of better land, and the agricultural abandonment of larger areas of poorer land, which are then available for reforestation through natural regeneration or planting.