Influence of Income Level and Family Size on Forest Resource Conservation in Akamkpa Local Government Area of Cross River State, Nigeria

Abstract This study investigated the influence of income level and family size on forest resource conservation in Akamkpa Local Government Area of Cross River State, Nigeria. A survey research design was adopted for the study. A sample of 215 respondents was selected using purposive and accidental sampling techniques. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire titled Income Level, Family Size and Forest Conservation Questionnaire (ILFSFCQ), with reliability coefficients ranging from 0.76 to 0.81. The data were analyzed using One Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) at a 0.05 level of significance. The findings revealed that income level significantly influences forest resource conservation in the study area (F = 12.117, p < 0.05). Households with lower income levels were more dependent on forest resources for survival, thereby increasing pressure on forest ecosystems. Similarly, family size was found to have a significant influence on forest conservation practices (F = 10.077, p < 0.05), as larger households required more resources for subsistence and income generation. The study concluded that socio-economic factors play a critical role in shaping conservation behavior among rural dwellers. It therefore emphasized the need for integrated livelihood and population management strategies to promote sustainable forest resource conservation in Akamkpa Local Government Area.

Keywords: income levels, family size, socio-economic factors and forest conservation.