LOCAL PERCEPTIONS OF ECOSYSTEM SERVICES, DEGRADATION CAUSES, AND CONSERVATION STRATEGIES: DENBIQ WETLAND, WEST GOJAM, ETHIOPIA

Kebebush Mulat Alem

Abstract


Wetlands are vital ecosystems that offer various ecological and socio-economic benefits. However, in Ethiopia, wetland degradation has been increasingly prevalent. This study focused on Denbiq Wetland in the West Gojam district, Bure Wereda, to assess its ecosystem services and the factors driving its degradation. Data were collected through structured questionnaires, interviews, group discussions, and field observations. A random sample of 202 households was surveyed, and data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean, percentage, frequency distribution) and binary logistic regression. The study found that Denbiq Wetland provides essential services, including provisioning services (e.g., fresh water, fodder, fruit), regulating services (e.g., water purification, temperature regulation), cultural services (e.g., recreation, tourism), and supporting services (e.g., habitat, organic matter accumulation). The leading causes of wetland degradation identified by respondents were the shortage of cropland, grazing land, declining upland crop productivity, and increasing agricultural demands. Logistic regression analysis revealed that household size negatively impacted the wetland, while landholding size and age had a positive effect. Respondents were aware of strategies to address the issues, including raising awareness, establishing buffer zones, and limiting grazing. The study emphasized the importance of legal support, proper planning, and sustainable management practices to protect wetlands and enhance upland agricultural productivity.


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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.20527/ijwem.v13i1.22335

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