Multiple use approach in the conservation of biological diversity: case study of Ayer Hitam forest reserve

Abdullah M., . and Amat Ramsa Y., . and Yip H.W., . (2007) Multiple use approach in the conservation of biological diversity: case study of Ayer Hitam forest reserve. [Proceedings Paper]

Ayer Hitam Forest Reserve is an island of forest amidst a sea of urban development. Despite of its isolated location and the logging status studies conducted in the park showed this forest is still very rich with plants and animals biodiversity. About 430 species of seed plants 33 species of fern and fern allies 127 timber species 29 fruit tree species and 98 species with medicinal values were recorded in the forest. Meanwhile the richness in wildlife population of this forest is comparable to the plants diversity. However with the increasing number of human population in the surrounding areas there is demand to open the area for public recreational use. This paper discusses the changing role of Ayer Hitam Forest Reserve in relation to multipurpose use as a new approach in preserving and conserving the flora and fauna of the reserve. This reserve has served as a teaching and research site but due to its strategic location it must be ready to allow people to set foot in. However increase use of its resources without causing adverse impact to the environment is desired. Any recretional access and utilisation must involve low impact use and its development has to be based on the ecological limitation of the forest reserve. This key concern of the reserve management embraces multiple use concept where public is part of a broader environment. There must be a control in the extent of its potential development emphasis on carrying capacity abd zonation of uses based on resource characteristics. This paper also highlighted several factors that can contribute to the potential of public participation in the management of Ayer Hitam Forest Reserve.

Full text available from:

Abstract

Ayer Hitam Forest Reserve is an island of forest amidst a sea of urban development. Despite of its isolated location and the logging status studies conducted in the park showed this forest is still very rich with plants and animals biodiversity. About 430 species of seed plants 33 species of fern and fern allies 127 timber species 29 fruit tree species and 98 species with medicinal values were recorded in the forest. Meanwhile the richness in wildlife population of this forest is comparable to the plants diversity. However with the increasing number of human population in the surrounding areas there is demand to open the area for public recreational use. This paper discusses the changing role of Ayer Hitam Forest Reserve in relation to multipurpose use as a new approach in preserving and conserving the flora and fauna of the reserve. This reserve has served as a teaching and research site but due to its strategic location it must be ready to allow people to set foot in. However increase use of its resources without causing adverse impact to the environment is desired. Any recretional access and utilisation must involve low impact use and its development has to be based on the ecological limitation of the forest reserve. This key concern of the reserve management embraces multiple use concept where public is part of a broader environment. There must be a control in the extent of its potential development emphasis on carrying capacity abd zonation of uses based on resource characteristics. This paper also highlighted several factors that can contribute to the potential of public participation in the management of Ayer Hitam Forest Reserve.

[error in script]

Item Type:	Proceedings Paper
Additional Information:	1 ill.; 1 table.; 25 ref. call number: SD235 M3N277 2007
AGROVOC Term:	FOREST RESERVES
AGROVOC Term:	MULTIPLE USE
AGROVOC Term:	FLORA
AGROVOC Term:	FAUNA
AGROVOC Term:	RECREATION
AGROVOC Term:	MALAYSIA
Geographical Term:	MALAYSIA
Depositing User:	Ms. Suzila Mohamad Kasim
Last Modified:	24 Apr 2025 05:13
URI:	http://webagris.upm.edu.my/id/eprint/11078

Actions (login required)

View Item