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The study assessed the Land use changes adjacent to Lake Babati using Geographic information system and remote sensing. Specifically, the study assessed the negative impacts associated with anthropogenic activities to the lake, land use changes adjacent to the lake between years 2000 and 2011 and examined the strengths and weaknesses of the ongoing management of the Lake. Villages studied were Babati Majengo, Singe and Bagara Ziwani. Data were collected using Geographic information system and remote sensing techniques, questionnaire survey, Key informant information and physical field visit. Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 20 was used to analyze data. Results indicate that, negative impacts to the Lake due to anthropogenic activities prevailing in the study area were mainly encroachment, over-fishing, soil erosion and siltation. Land use changes have occurred in all study villages for all zones such as cultivation, grazing and residence. On average, cultivation and residence zones increased by 3.1% and 4.9% respectively in the study area between 2000 and 2011 while grazing zone decreased by 5.3% in the study area during those years. The major strengths of lake Babati management include forest conservation along the riparian zone, law enforcement and provision of environmental education. The main weaknesses undermining the ongoing conservation strategies of lake Babati were poor community participation and lack of proper land use plan that should allocate appropriate area for each land use category. The study concludes that, the noted land use changes between 2000 and 2011are mainly due to unsustainable human practices and has induced much pressure on the lake and its resources. Therefore, appropriate measures including involvement of relevant stakeholders’ particularly local communities in lake management should betaken. |
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