Abstract: The study on distribution, abundance and population structure of four indigenous threatened tree species in the Arba Minch natural forest, southern Ethiopia. The objective of this study was to assess the use of this species by local communities and its current population structure and status in its natural habitat in southern Ethiopia where it is poorly known. The study approach was categorized in to three; market survey, informant interview and species population inventory in the surrounding natural habitat. Market survey was mainly focused on market observation to estimate the amount of fruits, charcoal, timber, firewood and pole sold in the market. Informant interview was focused on the uses of the species and its availability in the surrounding forest fragments. The adult tree species abundance and regeneration status in the existing forest was estimated. The result indicates that the species are used source of food, charcoal production, timber production, house constriction, fuel- wood and farm implement. Local communities supplement their livelihood by selling wild collected ripe fruit, charcoal, timber, fuel-wood of these species for income. These species are locally very useful plant that needs attention for future research that benefits communities. Current over harvesting of mature tree influenced the regeneration of the species. If this unsustainable harvesting by local people continues, the capacity of the species to maintain its wild population is significantly reduced. Therefore, management and conservation strategies that incorporate this factor is required.Abstract: The study on distribution, abundance and population structure of four indigenous threatened tree species in the Arba Minch natural forest, southern Ethiopia. The objective of this study was to assess the use of this species by local communities and its current population structure and status in its natural habitat in southern Ethiopia where it is p...Show More
Abstract: Open spaces in cities like Dar es Salaam are facing problem of encroachment and conversion. Despite scholars’ recommendation on participatory approach in designing and execution of communities’ project to increase participation including Conservation of Open Spaces (COSP). The study used questionnaire survey and participatory approach tools to gather information. Results show that majority of the respondents are aware of specific types and functions of existing open spaces in the study area. In general, most respondents were willing to participate in COSP. Quality, benefits, education and duration of residence were factors positively influencing households’ willingness to participate in COSP.Abstract: Open spaces in cities like Dar es Salaam are facing problem of encroachment and conversion. Despite scholars’ recommendation on participatory approach in designing and execution of communities’ project to increase participation including Conservation of Open Spaces (COSP). The study used questionnaire survey and participatory approach tools to gath...Show More