Exploration of the Effect of Deforestation on Livelihood and the Adaptation Strategies

Abstract

Temperate rainforest are a natural reservoir of genetic diversity which offers a rich source of medicinal plants, high-yield foods and a myriad of other useful products. They are an important habitat for migratory animals and sustain as much as 50 percent of the species on earth, as well as a number of diverse and unique indigenous cultures. They also show an elemental role in regulating global weather in addition to maintaining regular rainfall, while buffering against floods, deforestations, and erosion. The studies purpose is to assess the effect of deforestation on livelihood and the adaptation strategies in Dellomena District, Bale zone Oromia region. Information about the various effects of deforestation and adaptation strategies was collected using a structured questionnaire and focus group discussion (FGD). The result shows that wind storm, flooding, late rainfall; low output yields and wide spreads of pest infestation were ranked as the major effects of deforestation. It was agree by the majority of the discussants at FGD that artisan work and small scale businesses are the major other sources of livelihood adopted by the individuals. In their various submissions they all attest that wind storm and flooding are the most common effects of deforestation noticeable in the study area.