Land Use Land Cover Change And Its Impact On Ecosystem Services And Livelihoods On Adaba Dodola Forest Biomass Loss

Abstract

This study investigates the impacts of land-use and land-cover changes (LULCC) on the Adaba Dodola Forest's ecosystem services and local livelihoods over three decades (1992–2022). Using satellite imagery, NDVI analysis, and field surveys, the research identified a significant decline in dense forest cover, primarily driven by agricultural expansion, urbanization, and fuel-wood collection. Dense forests, which play a critical role in carbon sequestration and biodiversity conservation, saw net losses exceeding 48,000 hectares, while open forests and agricultural lands expanded, reflecting widespread land-use transitions. NDVI analysis revealed periods of severe vegetation loss, particularly between 1992 and 2007, followed by partial recovery by 2022 due to limited reforestation efforts and natural regeneration. The socioeconomic component of the study employed a combination of structured questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussions (FGDs), and field observations to gather primary data from local communities living in and around the Adaba-Dodola forest. A total of 200 respondents were selected through a mixed sampling approach that incorporated both probability and non-probability methods. Simple random sampling was used to ensure that each participant had an equal and independent chance of being included. The analysis of the collected data was performed using SPSS version 25, applying descriptive statistics and logistic regression to evaluate the perceived impacts of forest degradation on livelihoods and ecosystem services. The survey results revealed a significant reliance on the forest for essential resources. Among the respondents, 95% rated water provision as "very important," and 100% considered the soil fertility service provided by the forest as "very important." Additionally, 38% identified non-timber forest products such as fuelwood and medicinal plants as "very important," while 22% rated them as "somewhat important." In terms of the impact of forest degradation, 75% of respondents reported being highly affected, mainly due to reduced access to water, fertile soil, and fuelwood. Only 1% were neutral, and none claimed to be unaffected. Furthermore, 21% of respondents noted a decline in their household income, attributing this loss to the decreased productivity of ecosystem services resulting from forest degradation. These findings emphasize the central role of the forest in supporting local livelihoods and underscore the socio-economic consequences of ongoing land use and land cover changes. Despite these challenges, some reforestation and conservation initiatives have begun to restore vegetation, as evidenced by increased NDVI values in certain areas. However, the overall ecosystem health remains below pre-1992 levels, emphasizing the ongoing challenges of balancing human needs with environmental sustainability. To mitigate these impacts, the study recommends targeted reforestation programs, sustainable agricultural practices, and community-driven conservation efforts. These strategies aim to restore forest cover, enhance ecosystem services, and support the livelihoods of forest-dependent populations.