Economic Contribution of <i>Eucalyptus globulus</i> to the Livelihoods of Local Communities in Chelia District, Oromia, Ethiopia

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<i>Eucalyptus globulus</i> is the most economically important and the most commonly cultivated exotic tree species in the Chelia District. However, we have limited knowledge on quantitative estimation of <i>Eucalyptu</i>s contribution to the communities’ livelihoods, and perception of factors currently drives its expansion. The main objectives of the present research were to measure the quantitative economic contribution of<i> Eucalyptu</i>s to the communities’ livelihoods and to investigate factors that currently contribute to its expansion. We used a mixed-method approach, combining both quantitative and qualitative techniques. Data were collected using semi-structured survey questionnaires. A multiple linear regression model was used. The weighted mean score was used to analyze the perceptions of factors that currently contribute to <i>Eucalyptus</i> expansion. We surveyed the contribution of <i>E.globulus </i>to local communities; perception of factors that contributes to its expansion; the reason why respondents preferred <i>Eucalyptus</i> to other tree species, and respondents’ points of view on the current and future potential <i>Eucalyptus</i> expansion. Our results show that <i>Eucalyptus </i>income makes up 87% of the total households’ income, while agricultural income makes up 13%. The results also reveal that income source is the most factor that currently contributes to <i>Eucalyptus </i>expansion. Our analysis explained that the reason why respondents preferred <i>Eucalyptus</i> to other tree species are high-income return, suitable for building and firewood, short-rotation, and requires less management. We have confirmed that most of the livelihood’s income was generated from<i> Eucalyptus</i> income, and local communities are highly dependent on <i>Eucalyptus </i>activity. The findings of our research have important implications for managers and policymakers.