By: OKE O. S.; Akindele S. O.;
Abstract:
This study was undertaken to develop geospatial database for Oluwa forest reserve using Geographic Information
System (GIS). This database was designed to incorporate relevant spatial and non-spatial information collected on
the reserve which can be used for management purposes. In order to ensure that suitable and necessary information
were included in the database, a user's need assessment was carried out and copies of checklist were administered to
the staff of Ondo State Afforestation Project (OSAP), who are the primary managers of the reserve. Highlighted
information need included information on the forest comprising of plantation and natural forest, nursery, sawmill,
staff, and forest dwelling communities within the reserve. In addition, satellite imagery of the area was downloaded
from Google Earth and topographic map were obtained for the purpose of map production. Geographic coordinates
were also taken using the Global Positioning System (GPS) during the fieldwork as well as relevant pictures. The
primary data obtained during the fieldwork, alongside the secondary data were subjected to descriptive statistical
analysis using Microsoft Excel software for onward use in the Database Management System (DBMS). ArcView
3.2a, the GIS Software used as the DBMS, was used to produce thematic maps of vegetation, forest dwelling
communities, road networks and river body. All non-spatial information obtained for each thematic feature were
incorporated into the information system as attribute data. A database for Oluwa forest reserve which included
information on forest, nursery, sawmill, staff and forest communities was developed. The study shows that GIS is a
powerful tool that is not only useful for map production but also for developing database.
Keywords: Forest Reserve; Geographic Information System; Database; Forest Management;
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