Abstract:
Forest is the major source of livelihood and a sign of the identity of the indigenous people.
Attitudes play a major role in acceptance of environmental policies or management actions.
Perceptions of forest value are a valuable source of information on local perspectives,
knowledge and beliefs. Forest degradation is a threat to the economic development of Ethiopia
in general and in Menesibu district in particular.Local communities are directly and indirectly
dependent on the forests for their livelihood. The study was conducted between October 2018
and February 2019. The study assessed conservation practices, perceptions and community
attitudes towards Dubata forest in Menesibu District,Oromia Region,West Ethiopia. A sample of
200 respondents were randomly selected from Buke Sachi kebele.Data was analyzed using
percentages, frequency, and Chi-square test for associations between independent and
dependent variables in SPSS version 20.Chi-square testrevealed that there was significant
association between educational level and occupation with most attitude and perception
variables at 5% significant level., In contrast sex and age did not significantly associate with
most issues, with one exceptionthe actual and potential threats to the conservation of Dubata
forest were explored, such as lack of enoughwell- trained staff, lack of strict rule and regulation
of trade associated forest products, intermittent support from governmental and
nongovernmental stakeholders, shortage of grazing land andagricultural expansion due to
population growth , low level of participation of local people in forest management,etc. The
study also identified practices that enhance forest conservation, such as afforestation, woodlot
plantation on non-forested land and reforestation of degraded natural forest, occasional
patrolling activity as well as communities attitudes were greatly explored, and some
recommendations were forwarded
