WITHDRAWN: Assessing the Effect of REDD+ Pilot Project in Community Forest and Soil Lose: The Case of Kembata Tembaro, Ethiopia

Abstract This study aims to analyze the impact of the REDD + Investment Program (RIP) pilot project on forest and soil loss in the Kembata Tembaro district, Ethiopia. The analysis utilized data on forest cover changes, soil characteristics, topography, and climate data collected from 2017 to 2024. The spatial data, like land use, elevation, soil properties, and climate data, were collected from various sources, such as satellite imagery, WorldClim, and aerial photography. In addition, Norway’s International Climate and Forests Initiative (NICFI) high spatial-resolution (4.77 meters) satellite images were used for land use and land cover analysis of the study area. Google Earth Engine and QGIS were used to conduct the change detection and soil loss estimation analysis of the study area. The revised Universal Soil Loss Equation model was applied to estimate soil loss in the study area. Finally, the study examines the changes in forest cover between 2017 and 2024, highlighting the impact of RIP interventions. Analysis of satellite imagery revealed an increase in tree cover across the studied area, suggesting successful forest restoration efforts. The selected pilot projects from sampled Afforestation Reforestation (AR) and Assisted Natural Regeneration (ANR) sites showcase the program's potential to enhance forest cover and stability. Furthermore, the research identifies potential areas for future expansion of forest cover and highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring and conservation efforts to ensure the sustainability of these initiatives. Overall, the study demonstrates that the REDD + pilot projects have a positive contribution to forest restoration and soil conservation in Kembata Tembaro District, Ethiopia.