This paper outlined the early experiences of the East Usambara Agricultural Development and Environmental Conservation Project in Tanzania, set up to involve local people in the conservation of the montane vegetation which has ecological and botanical importance. A major focus of the project was replanting of indigenous trees along the boundaries of forest reserves. The author observed that to foster greater local participation in forest management required active communication, experimentation with new ideas, commitment to counteracting illicit use of forest reserves and acceptance that conservation benefits would only be seen in the long-term.