Forests are crucial for climate change due to their significant capacity to act as carbon sinks. This study aimed to evaluate the carbon storage capacity of the Gantamie Natural Forest, which is in the Bure Zuria woreda in Northwestern Ethiopia. The study were employed systematic random sampling to collect field data across the study site. The main 20 m × 20 m plot was used for aboveground biomass (AGB) and belowground biomass (BGB) measurements, while smaller 1 m × 1 m subplots provided soil and litter samples. Additionally, we utilized allometric models to estimate carbon stock across different carbon pools. The results showed that the mean carbon stock of AGC, BGC, LC, and SOC was 320.3t/ha, 64.1t/ha, and 1.50t/ha and 40.4 t/ha, respectively. The study underscores the significance of precise carbon stock estimates and the role of allometric models in achieving this objective. Gantamie Natural Forest had 426.3 t/ha of total carbon and was sequestering 1563.3t/ha of CO2-equivalent. Using the linear regression equation y = a + bx, the regression study between NDVI readings and carbon stock produced a model equation of Y = 1048.6x + 43.192 with R2 = 0.7958. After a month, the index's correctness was confirmed, and a model equation of Y = 1071x + 32.844 with an R2 of 0.7863 was found. Gantamie Natural Forest has the potential to store significant amounts of carbon, with above-ground and soil organic carbon pools having the greatest potential for building up carbon stocks. These results offer valuable insights into carbon distribution across different pools, aiding the development of strategies for carbon stock management to mitigate climate change. Sustainable forest management and use will be crucial in minimizing the temperature rise, and further research should focus on quantifying dead wood, shrubs, and herbaceous carbon stock of Gantamie Natural Forest to have more comprehensive information and strengthen management systems.

Dry forests in Ethiopia, spanning 55 million hectares, are vital for local livelihoods through resin resources, particularly frankincense from Boswellia papyrifera. However, unsustainable harvesting, compounded by socio-economic pressures and limited regeneration, has led to a significant population decline. This study, conducted in Ethiopia's Metema District, examines the ecological status of Boswellia papyrifera and compares harvesting practices between cooperatives and private enterprises to identify management sustainability challenges. A forest inventory utilized 22 plots (400 m² each) and a survey was administered to 80 harvesters selected by stratified random sampling. The chi-squared test and the independent samples t-test were applied for categorical and continuous variables respectively. The population structure showed a marked instability and limited regeneration potential. Tree density of Boswellia papyrifera was significantly higher in cooperative forests (146.6 stems/ha) than in private concessions (126.57 stems/ha) (p = 0.010). Private sector harvesters exhibited significantly more damaging practices, including a higher proportion of tapping small trees (DBH < 15 cm), lower tapping height, and more dead trees, suggesting a focus on short-term gain over ecological preservation. Specifically, 65% of private sector trees had over 12 tapping spots, compared to 25.1% in the cooperative sector (p = 0.004). Furthermore, 86% of private tappers reported not allowing trees to rest (p = 0.001). The commercial sector's intensive practices and harvesters' limited knowledge (only 42.9% of private employees formally trained) are major obstacles. To ensure the long-term survival of Boswellia papyrifera, we recommend strict enforcement of harvesting quotas, mandatory training for private sector tappers, and the establishment of statutory resting periods for tapped trees.