Assessment of Hydroelectric Dam and Its Effects on Forests and Rural Livelihoods: The Case of Fincha-Amarti-Nashe, Ethiopia

Abstract

The study was aimed to assess the effects of the Fincha-Amarti-Nashe hydroelectric dam on residents' livelihoods and forests, as well as suggesting potential solutions. A qualitative research approach with two-stage sampling techniques were deployed to select samples for the study. Simple statistical analysis was used to analyze the data collected from sampled households and development agents from the sub-watershed. The findings indicated that the main cause of the forest's decline was the lack of grazing areas since the neighboring hydroelectric power plant occupied most of their agriculture and grazing lands to accumulate water. As a result, farmers were forced to extend their grazing and farming areas towards the forests. According to the farmers’ responses, the dam affected their grazing pasture, and consequently, the production of meat, milk, and other has considerably decreased. The scheme's management must acknowledge the issues and devise a long-term plan of action that stabilizes and sustains their way of life. Moreover, the nation's water resource initiatives, including the building of hydropower dams, need extensive environmental monitoring.