KONSERVASI MANGROVE SEBAGAI UPAYA MENDUKUNG KAWASAN EKOWISATA PANTAI MUARA INDAH KOTA GUNUNGSITOLI

Abstract

Mangrove ecosystems have important ecological, economic, and social value as coastal buffers and providers of environmental services for communities. However, the utilization of mangroves in Indonesia, including in Gunungsitoli City, is still not optimal and faces threats of land conversion and low conservation awareness. This study aims to identify the condition of the mangrove ecosystem at Muara Indah Beach, analyze the potential and challenges of ecotourism development, and formulate conservation strategies and management models appropriate to local conditions. The study employs a mixed-methods approach combining qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Primary data was collected through field observations, in-depth interviews, questionnaires, and focus group discussions (FGDs), while secondary data was sourced from research reports, statistical data, and policy documents. Analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics, content analysis, and SWOT analysis. The results of the study indicate that the mangrove ecosystem at Muara Indah Beach is still in fairly good condition, dominated by the species Rhizophora apiculata, Avicennia marina, and Sonneratia alba. The high biodiversity, strategic location, and support from the community and government make this area a potential destination for ecotourism development. The main challenges include infrastructure limitations, low community capacity in tourism management, and anthropogenic threats. The recommended conservation strategy is community-based ecotourism (Community-Based Ecotourism) with an integrated ecological, economic, and social approach. This study emphasizes that the success of mangrove ecotourism development at Muara Indah Beach is highly dependent on multi-stakeholder collaboration, enhanced community capacity, and clear regulatory support. The findings of this study are expected to serve as a reference for sustainable coastal management policies in Indonesia.