Perception Of Community On Socioeconomic Benefits And Hydrological Impact Of Eucalyptus Tree In Amuru District, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia

Abstract

The study, conducted in the Amuru district of the Horo Guduru Wallega Zone in Oromia Regional State, Western Ethiopia, aimed to assess community perceptions regarding the socioeconomic benefits and hydrological impacts of eucalyptus trees. To gather primary data, the research employed a semi-structured questionnaire survey, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions, using a crosssectional survey design. Four kebeles were purposively selected based on their potential for eucalyptus cultivation, and 140 eucalyptus cultivators were randomly chosen. Data analysis was carried out using SPSS Version 26.Farmers in the study area prefer cultivating eucalyptus trees over native species to cover various expenses, including government taxes, school fees, and contributions to social organizations like Mahibers, Zikirs, and Iddirs, as well as for construction purposes. Over the past decade, eucalyptus plantations in Amuru district have expanded dramatically by 96%, growing from 28.375 hectares in 2014 to 745.6537 hectares in 2023. Eucalyptus trees are highly valued, with 59.8% of respondents having direct experience in their cultivation. Additionally, 87.2% of respondents view eucalyptus as a divine gift, a vital resource for life, and a reliable source of loans, making it a popular choice for modern savings. Despite its numerous benefits such as providing timber, construction materials, and contributing to food security eucalyptus has been criticized for its potential environmental harm. During the 2023/24 cropping season, a shortage of fertilizer led to severe food shortages among those without eucalyptus trees. Moreover, 40.2% of eucalyptus cultivators reported awareness of adverse effects when planting near water sources, lakes, swamps, and wetlands. The study concludes that eucalyptus has significantly improved living standards and remains a valuable asset for farmers. However, the primary cause of its negative impacts is improper management rather than the tree's inherent characteristics. To maximize its socioeconomic benefits and minimize environmental and ecological impacts, land users and growers should focus on planting eucalyptus in suitable locations such as degraded lands, steep slopes, waterlogged areas, and road sides and implement effective management practices