Abstract
This study evaluates the impact of a participatory forest management (PFM) program on forest structure and cover change in the Guangua Elala Natural Forest, Ethiopia. A comparison of current vegetation data with baseline information collected by Guangua Woreda agricultural experts was conducted to assess structural and coverage changes. Vegetation data were gathered from 44 plots, each measuring 20 m × 20 m, to capture tree and shrub density, height, and diameter distributions. Additionally, cloud-free Landsat-7 and Landsat-8 images from 2012 and 2021 were analyzed to determine forest cover change over time. Data analysis included computation of vegetation metrics such as stem density, height, and diameter classes, with t-tests applied to compare these variables before and after PFM implementation. Results indicate that the forest displays a healthy, inverted ‘J’ shape population structure, which signifies robust regeneration with higher densities in lower diameter and height classes. Forest and shrub land cover expanded slightly after the PFM program, with increases of 0.69 % and 0.27 %, respectively. This suggests that PFM positively impacts both the structural health and coverage of the forest by promoting regeneration and conserving existing cover. Overall, this study concludes that PFM contributes to the stability and improvement of forest ecosystems in the region. Expanding PFM initiatives to neighboring forests could further enhance forest conservation and provide sustainable benefits to local communities. This research underscores the effectiveness of participatory approaches in managing forest resources for both ecological and social benefits.