THE LAND USE PATTERN OF IFON GAME RESERVE, ONDO STATE

Abstract

In an attempt to investigate the level of human encroachment in Ifon Game Reserve, 5% of the six villages were randomly selected at different regions of the reserve. The selection was done in a way that all ecological zones were represented. The following methods were used for the study: Oral interview, questionnaire and direct observation. The following parameters were considered: Population density, occupation, proximity to the reserve, and nature of damages done to biodiversity in the reserve. Photographs of important places and features were taken. Results were analysed using percentage distribution ranges. Graphical representation were used. Results showed that a large population illegal occupants are resident in the reserve. The illegal residents carry out a lot of nefarious activities on the park such as poaching, logging, fishing, mining, cultivation, bush burning and road construction. Suggestions for effective control of the various destructive activities of man and the methods of maintaining the reserve for meeting with the objectives with which it was established were made.