Revamping the Process of Selecting the Appropriate Plant Species for Restoring Peat Ecosystems in South Kalimantan, Indonesia, Through the Implementation of A New Approach
Rina Muhayah Noor Pitri
Gusti Muhammad Hatta
Ahmad Kurnain
Hafizianor
This study aims to examine the appropriate type and size of seedlings for revegetation activities and the community's willingness to participate in the restoration of peat ecosystems. The research was conducted in Pulantani village and Tambak Sari Panji village, located in the Hulu Sungai Selatan Regency of Indonesia. The study focused on peatland plant species, community knowledge, expert opinions, and community attitudes. Data collection involved field surveys using nested plot sampling, with plots measuring 20 m x 20 m. A total of 10 plots were used to document plant species at different levels, including trees, poles, saplings, and seedlings. Community knowledge, expert opinions, and community attitudes were gathered through interviews. Descriptive analysis and scoring were used to analyze the data on species selection. Public willingness was assessed descriptively using specific indicators. The study identified seven plant species at various vegetation levels in the peat forest. The limited number of species indicates a high degree of disturbance in the peat forest. Combretocarpus rotundatus, Shorea balangeran, and Alstonia pneumatophora were the main species selected for revegetation. Other species included Melicope sp. and Pternandra azuera. The preferred seed size was approximately 80 cm in diameter. The high willingness of the community to participate in peat ecosystem restoration activities can be attributed to the presence of social capital within the community. The willingness of the Pulantani village community to engage in peat ecosystem restoration was higher than the Tambak Sari Panji village community. A comprehensive approach that considers the community's ecological and socio-economic aspects is necessary for restoring degraded peat ecosystems. The study is unique in bringing real-life issues to peat ecosystems, and problems identified, like species disturbances, will help advance the literature in the field.
Keywords:Covid-19, Species selection, Revegetation, Recovery, Peat Ecosystem, Kalimantan Forest, Indonesia
