Formulating peatland fire prevention strategy in Bengkalis Regency: An application of analytical hierarchy process

Abstract

Bengkalis has been widely known as one of the regencies in Riau Province that is dominated by peatland. Nevertheless, this regency is also known for its almost annually recurring peatland fires. Considering this issue, this study primarily aims to formulate peatland fire prevention strategy in Bengkalis Regency. This study was conducted through the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) methodology. While having a high degree of consistency ratio among involved experts, the results of this study revealed that shrubs was the type of peatland cover that must be given priority attention. Meanwhile, the key criteria in implementing peatland fire prevention was budget availability. Besides, local governmental institution that should be prioritized to receive authority as the coordinator for peatland fires prevention was the Regional Disaster and Fire-Fighting Agency (BPBD-Damkar). In the meantime, sequentially, it seems that the best prevention alternative was to build and / or repair existing canal blocks; strengthened by the implementation of regional integrated security patrols; constructing and/or repairing of water reservoirs and boreholes; as well as the provision of zero-burning incentives to traditional cultivators. These findings are useful to support the local government in preparing a more proactive prevention approach in addressing peatland fires.