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Perceived Status Of Ecosystem Services Emanating From A Forest Reserve: Evidence From Atewa Range Forest Reserve In
Raphael Ane Atanga1,2, Aruna Kainyande3, Vitus Tankpa4,5,6
1Department of Geography Education, Faculty of Social Sciences Education, University of Education, Winneba, Ghana. raatanga@uew.edu.gh.
Environmental Management
|January 30, 2024
Summary
The Atewa Forest Range Reserve
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Environmental Science
- Conservation Biology
Background:
- Forest ecosystem services are crucial for sustainable development, climate change mitigation, and rural livelihoods.
- The Atewa Forest Range Reserve in Ghana supports local livelihoods but faces threats from human activities.
- Current information on the reserve's ecosystem services status and threats is fragmented.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess local awareness and perceptions of the Atewa Forest Range Reserve's ecosystem services.
- To identify major drivers of change threatening ecosystem service provision.
- To inform management decisions balancing utilization and conservation goals.
Main Methods:
- Household surveys with 150 respondents.
- Key informant interviews with 9 participants.
- Analysis of awareness and perceptions regarding ecosystem services and threats.
Main Results:
- Provisioning services are the most utilized, leading to significant declines.
- Declining services pose a risk to local populations' livelihoods.
- Local awareness and perceived importance of ecosystem services indicate appreciation and interest in sustainable management.
Conclusions:
- Understanding local perceptions is vital for prioritizing management decisions.
- A co-management approach involving local communities can enhance conservation efforts.
- Strategic inclusion of communities fosters collaboration and positive perceptions for preserving ecological functions.
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