Threats and management options of the green belt natural forest, northwest lowlands of Ethiopia

• Green Belt Forest (GBF) showed spatio-temporal reduction. Anthropogenic activities are main causes for the GBF Investors, settlers, migrants and residents agents of Local bylaws, ex-closure awareness building potential management options. The natural forest located across central Africa from Gambia (West Africa) to Ethiopia (East is believed break expansion great Sahara Desert towards southern south eastern Africa, as a green belt. However, anthropogenic factors challenging existence forest. Thus, this study was conducted investigate dynamics, threats sustainable options belt in Ethiopia. Satellite imagery used assess cover dynamics between year 1980 2020 using ERDAS IMAGINE software. ArcGIS software spatial analysis mapping. Field observation, focus group discussions, questionnaire based interview were collect required data SPSS analysis. result that farmland increased 32% (in 1980) 52% 2020), whereas, decreased 58% 39% with overall classification accuracy kappa coefficient 86% 81%, respectively. Re-settlement, large-scale agricultural investment, charcoal production, fuel wood, road construction among important causing migrants, day-workers To minimize deforestation sustainably use local delineating keeping human interferences, awareness, enrichment plantation, alternative firewood sources identified Therefore, maintain Desert, governmental non-governmental organization community ought apply recommended