LOSS OF FOREST RESERVES IN ANAMBRA STATE, NIGERIA: CAUSES, EFFECTS AND POLICY IMPLICATIONS

Abstract

This study investigated causes, effects and policy implications of forest reserve loss in Anambra State. The objectives of the study were to: determine the causes and effects of forest reserve loss, examine the factors for implementation of 2006 forest policy act and develop a model for sustainable forest management in Anambra State. Apkaka Forest Reserve in Onitsha North Local Government Area was used as a case study. Questionnaire survey, field observation and oral/in-depth interviews were used for this study. Findings showed that weak governance, corrupt practices, Ignorance, Insecurity, Population growth, urban expansion, excessive consumption among others are the causes of loss of forest reserves in the State. Again, findings Shows that effects of this loss includes erosion, flooding, change in local climatic condition, siltation of streams, extinction of plants and animal species. Another finding of this study was that the 2006 forest policy act is not implemented at both State and Local Government levels. They exist only on Paper. From results obtained through data analysis, a model for sustainable forest management in Anambra State was developed. Some forest management factors in the model includes community participation, awareness creation; adequate implementation of forest policy, staff training among others. Forest reserve loss in Anambra State was also categorised into 3 phases which include input (human actions that led to the loss of forest reserves), through put (the forest reserve loss itself), output (environmental consequences of the loss).

Keywords: Forest reserve, Forest reserve loss, Environment, Sustainable management, Climate change