Ecological changes following rules in use and anthropology: the case of Echuya bamboo forest, south-western Uganda

Abstract

At the time of reservation in 1935, Echuya Forest Reserve located in S. Western Uganda was dominated by bamboo (Arundinaria alpina Schum) vegetation. Presently, the bamboo vegetation is being replaced by hardwood tree species. In this study, we use both oral and written history to understand the rules in use and use patterns over-time to link rules in use to the observed ecological changes in Echuya Forest Reserve. We conclude that rules restricting setting of fires in the reserve, and rules abolishing harvesting of hardwoods have had an impact on the direction of vegetation and ecological succession in Echuya Forest Reserve during the last century.