STRATEGI PENGELOLAAN PARTISIPATIF SUMBERDAYA HUTAN BERBASIS KEARIFAN LOKAL DI WILAYAH KPH KULAWI PROVINSI SULAWESI TENGAH

Abstract: Forests play a vital role in supporting the livelihoods of surrounding
communities and have the potential to significantly boost local economies. However, this
dependence can sometimes threaten the sustainability of forest ecosystems. To address
this, sustainable management should be at the forefront of utilizing existing forest
resources. A study focusing on community empowerment in managing forestry
commodities is essential to optimize the sustainable use of natural resources in Central
Sulawesi Province. This research aims to identify factors influencing community
empowerment in managing and utilizing these resources, which will inform strategies to
strengthen such empowerment. The S-O-A-R (Strengths, Opportunities, Aspirations,
Results) approach has been employed to enhance qualitative analysis across three
operational areas of KPH Kulawi. Findings indicate that community capacity to manage
forest areas is bolstered by elements of local wisdom. This approach is recognized as an
effective strategy for safeguarding forest areas while simultaneously improving the
community's economic well-being.

Keywords: Local Knowledge; Participatory; Forest Management Unit