Ecosystem Services, Local People Perception and Preferences in Chilimo Forest of Ethiopia

Abstract

Site and situation specific assessments of such services are crucial to sustainably conserve and manage forest resources. In this study, using Chilmo forest as a case study site, an attempt has been made to identify the main ecosystem services which are perceived and preferred by local communities. The study triangulated primary data collection methods such as field observations, household surveys, key informant interviews and pebble-distribution methods. In addition, secondary data was used to support and verify the primary data. Combination of techniques were employed for data analyses. Five lanscapes and four forest ecosystem services were identified. Out of which, provisioning services are the main source of livelihood and subsistence incomes for local communities. Forests are the sole source of water and fuel wood services in the study area. According to the perception and preferences of local people forest land received the highest scores compared to other landscapes for all services except provisioning services. We conclude that local communities are highly dependent on forests' ecosystem services in the study area. This finding is expected to contribute towards management of the Chilmo forest and to be used as an input for further valuation study.