Analysis of Mangrove Forest Degradation and Mangrove Conservation Management in the Community Economy of Langkat Regency

Abstract

Mangrove ecosystems play a strategic role in maintaining coastal ecological balance while supporting local livelihoods through diverse ecosystem services. However, increasing mangrove degradation has threatened both ecological integrity and the socio-economic sustainability of coastal communities, including Selotong Village, Lalat Regency. This study analyzes the drivers of mangrove degradation, evaluates conservation management, and examines its socio-economic impacts. A qualitative approach was employed using purposive sampling involving 30 informants, including fishermen, pond farmers, village officials, community leaders, and coastal community groups. Data were collected through field observations, semi-structured interviews, and documentation, then analyzed using the Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña interactive model. The findings reveal that mangrove degradation is primarily driven by anthropogenic activities, including land conversion into aquaculture ponds and oil palm plantations, timber exploitation, and weak governance, compounded by coastal abrasion and hydrodynamic processes. These conditions have reduced fisheries productivity, increased fishing operational costs, and hindered the development of mangrove-based enterprises such as ecotourism and silvofishery. Effective conservation requires ecosystem-based and community-based management through ecosystem rehabilitation, institutional strengthening, multi-stakeholder collaboration, and community economic empowerment. This study proposes an integrated mangrove management model incorporating ecological, social, economic, and institutional dimensions to support sustainable coastal conservation policies.