Studies on the Attitudes of Communities Towards Native Trees Propagation in Meta Robi Wereda, West Shoa Zone, Oromia Regional State
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Date
2018-09-09
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
It is evident that we are living in a world whose natural balance is greatly affected by human activities .The present study was undertaken to examine the prevailing attitudes of communities towards native trees propagation. The research was conducted in Meta Robi Wereda, West Shoa Zone, Oromia Regional State. This research work was conducted to fill the research gap by identifying and providing the necessary information about the attitudes of communities towards native trees propagation practices. Primary data were obtained through the application of structured questionnaire, as well as through conducting discussions with key informants and focus groups. Secondary data were obtained from published papers in scientific journals, books, project reports, unpublished materials and maps. A total of 120 sample respondents were identified using simple random sampling technique from three Kebeles, namely, Falé, Katkato Jijiga and Haro Walkete. Data were coded and entered into SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences), and were analyzed accordingly. The study found that populations of native trees are generally on the decline. The major reasons for the decline were charcoal production, use for firewood, and extremely high demand for furniture production. The majority of communities involved in the present study had positive attitudes towards propagation of native trees, provided that propagation materials and skills in propagation techniques are available. However, these attitudes were influenced by gender, educational level, farming size and occupational status. It was observed that low level of scientific awareness about the values of native trees for the development of keystone natural resources such as soils, water, and biodiversity constituted a major factor for the demise of native trees. Also, absence of native trees seedlings in local nurseries, as well as dearth of information on the propagation techniques of these presented formidable challenges to their cultivation. We recommend that the Government, as well as the local councils formulate clear strategies on the propagation and cultivation of native trees, which we consider are critical for the development of keystone natural resources and, consequently, food, water and energy security.
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Allelopathy, Exotic Trees, Keystone Natural Resources, Vegetative Propagation