Conservation practices, perceptions and community attitudes towards Dubata forest in Menesibu District,Oromia Region,West Ethiopia

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