PENGELOLAAN EKOSISTEM PERAIRAN TAWAR ZONASI DAN STRATEGI KONSERVASI DI KECAMATAN SAWO KABUPATEN NIAS UTARA

Abstract

Freshwater ecosystems play a vital role in supporting food security, ecological balance, and the provision of ecosystem services to communities. However, anthropogenic pressures, land use changes, and weak regulations have increased the vulnerability of these ecosystems, particularly in rural coastal areas. This study aims to analyze the condition of freshwater ecosystems in Sawo Subdistrict, North Nias Regency, and formulate conservation strategies through an adaptive zoning approach. The research method combines quantitative and qualitative approaches with biophysical analysis, water quality surveys, biodiversity inventories, and in-depth interviews with local stakeholders. The results of the study show that water quality is under pressure from erosion, sedimentation, and agricultural pollution, which has an impact on the decline in ecological integrity. Meanwhile, socio-economic analysis reveals that the community's dependence on water use is not yet managed sustainably. The research recommendations emphasize the importance of implementing a conservation zoning system with three main components, namely core zones, buffer zones, and sustainable use zones. The implementation of this strategy is expected to maintain a balance between ecological preservation and the economic sustainability of local communities. This research not only enriches the literature on freshwater conservation but also provides a locally-based management model relevant to supporting national conservation targets and achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs).