UTILIZATION OF INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE IN FOREST CONSERVATION PRACTICES IN IKOM AGRICULTURAL ZONE OF CROSS RIVER STATE, NIGERIA.

Abstract

This study examined the utilization of indigenous knowledge in forest conservation practices in Ikom Agricultural Zone of Cross River State – Nigeria. It focused on the relationship between the socioeconomic characteristics of the respondents and use of indigenous knowledge in forest conservation, indigenous knowledge-based forest conservation practices, the extent of utilization of indigenous knowledge in forest conservation, and the challenges to the effective utilization of indigenous knowledge for forest conservation. The study adopted a survey design, 190 respondents were randomly selected for the study and data were collected with the aid of a validated structured questionnaire. Data obtained were analyzed using frequency, percentages and Ordinary Least Square. The result revealed that the communities used a wide range of indigenous knowledge systems such as the prohibition of tree felling, fire, logging and farming in forest reserves. They also used taboos, sometimes, vigilante groups, close season and preservation of sacred groves to preserve the forest. It was recommended that government should document and integrate local people into forest management, policies, and implementation.