Peoples’ Resource Utilization of Mangroves and Their Awareness to Its Environmental Importance

บทคัดย่อ

This study investigated the people’s resource utilization of mangrove and their awareness to its environmental importance.   One hundred fifty five (155) residents along the coastal areas of Bacolod and Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte accomplished the questionnaires and subjected to focus group discussions. The survey indicates that people along the coastal area have their dependence on the resources from the mangroves. People seldom engaged in cutting of mangrove trees for domestic consumption of fuel and house construction. The rate of cutting is periodic due to the interventions imposed by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). Despite low species diversity in the mangrove area, people used to collect shells and other forms of aquatic life for consumption. Some local residents also utilized mangroves for pharmaceutical and medicinal applications.

          The local residents were aware on the economic importance of the mangroves as good source of food and its ecological benefits in protecting their lives against calamities brought by storm surges, strong waves, tides, currents and wind damage. Their awareness has dramatically enhanced their positive response to the governments’ coastal management program through intensive plantation and taking the responsibility as stewards of the mangroves’ resources. This study concludes with significant propositions to intensify government interventions to ensure greater food security and protection against natural disasters among the coastal community people.