Level of compliance with timber logging regulations in Central Cross River State, Nigeria

Abstract

The remorseless neglect of forest laws and regulations in timber logging operations is worrisome and detrimental to the health of the forests. This study is aimed at assessing the level of compliance with timber logging regulations in Central Cross River State. The projected population of nine (9) sampled communities from three (3) LGAs which were purposively sampled based on their predominance in illegal logging activities was subjected to Taro Yamene formula to get the sample size of three hundred and ninety-six (396) respondents for the study. Data was collected through the use of semi-structured questionnaire and analysed by the Likert scale rating format. The research findings showed that loggers comply more to forest laws and regulations during periods where there is ban on timber harvesting, where there is strict supervision, control and regulations because of the ban. It is therefore recommended that ban on timber exploitation in the study area be enforced since compliance with forest regulations is higher during the ban period, as well as reviewing and strictly enforcing forest laws and regulations, and also encouraging the locals to manage their own forest (participatory forest management) to improve compliance. Enlightenment campaigns through media such as billboards, radio, television, seminars, workshops, handbill, etc. on the need to comply with forest laws and regulations should be organized by the Government, NGOs, and well-meaning individuals to encourage compliance with forest regulations on timber logging operations.