The Impact of Illegal Logging Activities on Environmental Degradation and Flood Disasters in Wora Village, Wera District, Bima Regency, West Nusa Tenggara

Abstract

This study analyzes the interrelationship between illegal logging, environmental degradation, and the increasing risk of flood disasters in Wora Village, Wera District, Bima Regency, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. Employing a descriptive qualitative approach with an eco-sociological case study design, the research explores the dynamic interaction between human behavior, environmental governance, and ecological impacts. Findings indicate that illegal logging activities—driven by economic pressure, weak forest supervision, and the lack of alternative livelihoods constitute the root causes of forest degradation in the hilly areas of Wera. The loss of vegetation cover has accelerated soil erosion, increased river sedimentation, and reduced water infiltration capacity, culminating in the catastrophic flash flood event on February 2, 2025. The disaster caused severe ecological and socio-economic losses, including damaged farmland and destroyed local infrastructure. This condition reflects a failure of environmental governance at the local level, where institutional weaknesses hinder the balance between ecological preservation and community economic needs. Nevertheless, the emergence of community-based forest rehabilitation and local patrol initiatives demonstrates promising progress toward adaptive, participatory, and sustainable environmental management grounded in local wisdom..