Local Communities and Sustainable Management in Maladumba Lake and Forest Reserve Nigeria

Abstract

Common failures in resolving multiple use conflicts are attributed to the inability of institutions to recognize and incorporate people's perceptions towards the resource. This study aims to determine the local communities' perceptions and factors influencing their perceptions towards Maladumba Lake and Forest Reserve and its sustainable management. One hundred questionnaires were distributed to systematically selected householders situated near the MLFR. Correlation analysis determined the factors influencing the householder's perception. Results showed that attitudes, income and willingness to manage resources affect the local communities' perception (p<0.5). Results also showed that most respondents recognized that the condition of the MLFR is deteriorating due to anthropogenic activities and each individual can play a role to sustainably manage the environment.