Influence of Non-Timber Forest Product Exploitation on the Conservation of Boumba Beck National Park, Southeast Cameroon

Abstract

Non-timber forest products (NTFPs) are acknowledged for supporting rural livelihoods and forest conservation. This study was conducted in Boumba Bek National Park and its surrounding area in 2023. It aims to identify NTFPs and their vulnerability factors with a view to conserving of Boumba Beck National Park (PNBB). Field surveys were conducted through linear transect method, combined with ethnobotanical uses. This study identified 38 NTFPs belonging to 35 genera and 23 families. The factors exerting pressure on the identified NTFPs by harvesters include gathering, debarking, digging, picking, and cutting of vegetative parts. In forest management within Boumba Beck National Park, solutions that consider the various stakeholders and harvesting methods for NTFPs often need to be proposed. These findings indicate that NTFP exploitation without sustainable management can threaten the survival of ecologically and economically important species. Therefore, participatory conservation strategies that consider spatial distribution and harvesting pressure are urgently needed.