Abstract
The paper examines the significance of wetland ecosystems to the socio-economic life of smallholders in Cross River State, and the relationship between socio-economic factors and wetland degradation. A multi-stage sampling procedure was used in selecting respondents for the study. Data for this study was analyzed using descriptive statistics such as means, percentages, frequency distribution and regression analysis. Findings revealed that farming was the major occupation of respondents while trading was the major complementary activity. There was evidence of increasing intensity of land use, with 51 percent of the respondents indicating 0-2 years of fallow. The wetland sector provided 80 percent employment to smallholders whereas other sectors/activities provided 20 percent. The result of the regression analysis based on Linear regression model showed that farm size, household size, respondent’s age, fallow period and level of education were all significant determinants of wetland degradation. R squared value of 0.877 implied that 88% of the variations in wetland degradation was explained by the independent variables. The adjusted R squared and Standard Error of the estimate were 86% and 6.78 respectively. The model was significant at 1% probability level. Lack of credit, lack of access to inputs and deforestation were amongst the most severe problems. The study recommends that diversification of income sources through the creation of alternative means of livelihood will help reduce pressure on wetland ecosystems and subsequently reduce wetland degradation.KEY WORDS: Wetland, Small-Scale, Resources, Ecosystem, Degradation.
Highlights
In most developing countries the rural economy is closely dependent on the productivity and hydrological benefits of wetlands (Adams, 1985)
According to Hollis et al, (1988), many rural economies in Africa, South East Asia, and Artic region of Canada are dependent on the utilization of these wetlands due to the fact that the wetlands retain a wide range of their natural functions, and undergo processes which are of great value to the wetland itself, the surrounding ecosystems, and the people
This paper examines wetland use by smallholders and how their use can affect degradation in the Cross River State
Summary
In most developing countries the rural economy is closely dependent on the productivity and hydrological benefits of wetlands (Adams, 1985). According to Hollis et al, (1988), many rural economies in Africa, South East Asia, and Artic region of Canada are dependent on the utilization of these wetlands due to the fact that the wetlands retain a wide range of their natural functions, and undergo processes which are of great value to the wetland itself, the surrounding ecosystems, and the people. Acceptance of wetlands as highly productive ecosystems with a wide range of functions important to humans has grown, along with the recognition that losses and threats to these systems are severe. The increasing attention to the use of wetlands has made them one of the most threatened habitats because of their vulnerability and attractiveness for ‘development’ and their distinction being cited as among the most productive ecosystems on earth (Mitsch and Gosselink, 1986)
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
