Assessment of Seedling Survival and Associated Challenges under Community Mobilization Tree Planting Practice in Wadla Woreda, North East Ethiopia

The main purpose of this study was to assess the level of seedling survival and associated problems under community mobilization tree planting practice in Wadla Woreda, North Wollo Zone, Ethiopia. A descriptive survey design with a mixed approach was used, which included both quantitative and qualitative data collected from households, leaders of kebeles, development agents, and forestry experts. Primary data was gathered through questionnaires. interviews, focus groups, and transect walks, while secondary data including reports and official records were also touched. Based on transect walk data, average seedling survival rate was 51.66% with a wide range of survival among the kebeles . Among sample kebelles , Meley recorded the highest (81.3%) survival. rate, and Quana was registered the lowest (31.86%) rate. Investigation of five-year trends (2018–2022) showed a variable performance in terms of survival, reaching its maximum in 2018 (89.4%), decreasing to 49.4% in 2020, and returning to 84.6% in 2022. The analysis of descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression proved that improper planting technique, inappropriate planting time, competition by weeds, predation by animals, lack of replacements and local instability were the major challenges that hinder seedling survival. in the study area. Therefore, to achieve a higher success rate in the afforestation programs and guarantee the success of community-based afforestation efforts, it is necessary to improve the survival rates by enhancing the local capacity, maintaining the timely replacement seedlings.