The impacts of rehabilitation intervention on land cover change and economic benefits: evidence from Wera district, Ethiopia

Introduction An analysis of the impacts of watershed rehabilitation on land cover dynamics and income contribution for local communities is vital for assessing the sustainability of ecological restoration policy development and mitigating the adverse effects of ecosystem degradation. However, integrating ecological, economic, and social frameworks to assess rehabilitation impacts is an area often overlooked in prior studies. Objectives This study evaluates the impacts of watershed rehabilitation interventions on land cover and ecosystem service values, and examines the challenges to the sustainability of rehabilitated watersheds in Wera district, Ethiopia. Methods Cross‐sectional data and satellite imagery from 1984 to 2023 were applied to assess land cover change and estimate ecosystem service values. Land cover was examined for 2023 with the Landsat 8 Operational Land Imager and for 1984 with the Landsat 4–5 Thematic Mapper. Results The results show a significant decline in degraded land and a 1554.9 ha increase in forest cover from 1984 to 2023. Ecosystem service value rose by U.S.$0.35 million, and a resilient community network has developed. However, weak institutions, low youth engagement, and limited cooperation between upstream and downstream communities remain key challenges to sustainability. Conclusions Rehabilitation intervention boosts forest cover and economic outcomes by providing key resources. Forest cover increased by 1553.9 ha, raising ecosystem service values from U.S.$7.998 to U.S.$8.348 million.