INVESTIGATION FOR DEFORESTATION DRIVERS IN LUME DISTRICT, OROMIA REGION, CENTRAL ETHIOPIA

In the globe, there are a broad range of factors, causing forest cover change. Currently, forests of Lume district are under serious problem due to both direct and indirect drivers. Thus, the major aim of this study is to in- vestigate significantly encountered driving forces usually in the district. Qualitative data were collected using key informant interviews, household surveys and focus group discussion for determining the driving forces of the change. EXCEL and R software were used for processing and analyzing data obtained from participants. From the result of socio-economic data, income and land holding size have negative impact on forest cover change. The findings from the study revealed that both proximate and underlying drivers were a main cause of forest cover change in the study area. Accordingly, Agricultural land expansion (314), urban expansion and settlement area (244) and fuel wood and charcoal (145) were the major proximate drivers observed in the site. Moreover, the finding of the study confirmed that, high rate of population growth (39%), landlessness (25%), lack of awareness (19%) and weak law enforcement (17%) were the most commonly underlying drivers of forest cover change demonstrated in the district. Advanced land use policy, diversified job opportunity, adaptation of new technologies, raising awareness of stakeholders and implementation of existed law enforcement are highly suggested to use limited resources and fulfilling the demand of growing population sustainably.