The Role of Participatory Forest Management on Forest Composition, Diversity, and Regeneration: A Study of Guangua Elala Forest, Northwestern Ethiopia

Participatory forest management (PFM) is increasingly recognized as an effective approach for forest conservation and sustainable resource use in Ethiopia, yet empirical evidence of its ecological outcomes remains limited. This study assessed the effects of PFM on forest composition, diversity, and regeneration in the Guangua Elala Forest, Northwestern Ethiopia. Using a systematic sampling design, 44 paired permanent plots (20 × 20 m) were surveyed, with pre‐ and post‐PFM data collected on species richness, diversity, seedling and sapling density, tree/shrub density, and basal area. Paired t ‐tests revealed significant improvements in species richness, seedling and sapling densities, tree/shrub density, and basal area ( p  < 0.05). Species diversity increased from H ′  = 2.99 ( E  = 0.39) before PFM to H ′  = 3.11 ( E  = 0.36) after PFM. A total of 104 woody species representing 50 families were recorded, with 98 species shared between management periods. These results indicate that PFM enhances forest structure, regeneration, and resilience, supporting biodiversity conservation. The findings underscore the importance of community‐based management for sustaining forest ecosystems and informing forest policy and restoration strategies in Ethiopia.