Effects of fuel wood utilization on Pandam Wildlife Park, Plateau State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of fuel wood utilization on the Pandam Wildlife Park, employing a multi-stage sampling technique to  administer 3,305 questionnaires across four surrounding communities. Descriptive statistics and one-way ANOVA were utilized for data  analysis. Findings indicate a predominance of male fuel wood collectors, with 80% of respondents relying on firewood as their primary energy source. Approximately 83,000 metric tons of firewood are harvested and sold weekly in the study area, posing a substantial threat  to the park's ecosystem integrity. Poverty and rapid population growth are identified as major drivers of unsustainable fuel wood  harvesting. Addressing this issue necessitates comprehensive rural development policies and the provision of alternative energy sources.  The study highlights the importance of mitigating fuel wood dependency to conserve biodiversity and foster sustainable  development in protected areas.