Woody species diversity, structure, and carbon stock in a disturbed Dry Afromontane Forest in Ethiopia

Ethiopia is one of the tropical countries endowed with diverse forest formations. These forests supply the largest proportions of wood used for furniture, construction, and household energy consumption. Arbagugu forest is one of the Dry Afromontane forests under severe anthropogenic disturbances. Despite this fact, up to date information is lacking about the status of the forest. This study evaluates the woody species composition, diversity, population structure, and carbon stock in Arbagugu forest. We found that the forest had low woody species richness and diversity. Many woody species had inadequate regeneration status. The carbon stock density of the forest falls below values reported for other similar forests. Therefore, it is important to develop forest management strategies, utilization plans, and restoration initiatives that meet the local community’s interest. Minimizing anthropogenic disturbances is essential for preserving plant diversity and enhancing carbon storage in the forest. Our study recommends restoration of highly degraded areas through enrichment plantings and protection measures along with investments in awareness-raising about forest conservation. We also recommend further research quantifying the socio-ecological impacts of human activities on the forest and investigating the potential for sustainable timber harvesting using selected tree species from the forest.