Management of swamp buffalo farms in forest areas to preserve forest ecosystem and sustainability of community livelihoods

Abstract

The swamp buffalo of Pampangan (swamp buffalo) is one of South Sumatran germplasm that has the potential to be developed as one of the livelihoods of the people in peat swamp land. Currently, its farming extends from the farm area of origin in Pampangan area to the development area in Riding Village, Pangkalan Lampam Subdistrict, Ogan Komering Ilir Regency. Its expansion is mostly located within production forest area which is adjacent to Wildlife Sanctuary (WS) of Padang Sugihan. In the last decade, its population has increased both by birth and displacement. This phenomenon may cause competition in obtaining food and trigger damage to Padang Sugihan WS ecosystem. In order to support the sustainability of its business and to maintain the preservation of Padang Sugihan WS ecosystem, the optimum management of buffalo farming is required. Biophysical analysis of optimum grazing area, optimization studies and livestock business analysis are the methods used in this study. The results show that the total area of grazing area outside Padang Sugihan WS area is 1,646 ha and optimum population per ha is 3 buffalos. Analysis of its business analysis showed that financial feasibility was feasible. They indicate that buffalo farm business is potential developed as an alternative to community livelihoods in peat lands. In order to maintain the preservation of forest ecosystems and sustainability of community livelihoods, it is necessary to improve the grazing pattern and management of grazing areas. Hence the fodder is fulfilled without damaging the area of Padang Sugihan WS. Introduction.