Chapter One — 1.1 Background to the Study

Community Forest Management has become an increasingly important area of inquiry in the study of selected wildlife parks, as researchers seek a more precise, evidence-based understanding of how it shapes measurable outcomes.

Despite this interest, the precise relationship between community forest management and wildlife population in selected wildlife parks remains incompletely characterized, particularly under conditions typical of Nigeria's research and production environment.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

There is currently limited empirical evidence on how community forest management affects wildlife population in selected wildlife parks, making it difficult for researchers and practitioners to draw reliable, context-appropriate conclusions. This study addresses that gap through a structured investigation.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

1. To determine the effect of community forest management on wildlife population of selected wildlife parks.
2. To evaluate the extent to which community forest management influences wildlife population.
3. To identify the conditions under which community forest management has the greatest effect on wildlife population.
4. To recommend practices based on the observed relationship between community forest management and wildlife population.

1.4 Research Questions

1. What is the effect of community forest management on wildlife population of selected wildlife parks?
2. To what extent does community forest management influence wildlife population?
3. Under what conditions does community forest management have the greatest effect on wildlife population?
4. What practices can be recommended based on this relationship?

1.5 Significance of the Study

This study is significant to researchers and practitioners working with selected wildlife parks, offering evidence on how community forest management relates to wildlife population. It also contributes to the broader literature in forestry and wildlife by documenting findings specific to the conditions under which the study was conducted.

1.6 Scope of the Study

The study is limited to examining Community Forest Management and its relationship with wildlife population in selected wildlife parks, reflecting a BSc-level scope of analysis; conclusions are drawn strictly from the conditions and samples used in the study.