Management and the Influence of Socioeconomic Factors on Tree Species Diversity in Traditional Agroforestry Practices in Demba Gofa District, South Ethiopia

The goal of the study was to establish a baseline of information on the status of woody species variety and their uses, as well as local knowledge and the impact of socioeconomic factors on tree species diversity management. Primary data was collected through interviews and discussions with important informants, as well as a formal survey with standardized questionnaires. Inventorying trees in sampled plots of different agroforestry methods within three social classes was used to assess tree species richness. Secondary data was gathered from a variety of sources. The majority of farmers chose to grow trees around their homesteads, woodlots, and boundaries, according to the findings. The trees that were planted were for fuel wood, construction, and soil enhancement. Farmers who were wealthy had more trees than those who were middle-class. Boundary plantations had the highest proportion of tree stems per hectare, followed by woodlots. The number of tree species was found to be proportional to the size of the farm. It may be stated that in order to promote agroforestry technology, local knowledge in use, wealth status, experiences, resources, and farmer demands must all be considered.