Community Conduct and Its Influence on Forest Fires in the Sebangau Watershed: Spatial Analysis Utilizing Remote Sensing and Community Observation

Petrisly Perkasa; Yusuf Aguswan; Syam’ani; Debora; Tarita Aprilani Sitinjak; Eldy Indra Purnawan; Riska Ovany

doi:10.25299/jgeet.2026.11.1.22348

Authors

Petrisly Perkasa Master of Urban and Regional Planning, University of Palangka Raya, Yos Sudarso Street, Palangka Raya, Indonesia.
Yusuf Aguswan Forestry Department, University of Palangka Raya, Yos Sudarso Street, Palangka Raya, Indonesia.
Syam’ani Department of Forestry, Lambung Mangkurat University, Ahmad Yani Street, Banjarbaru, Indonesia.
Debora Building Engineering Education, University of Palangka Raya, Yos Sudarso Street, Palangka Raya, Indonesia.
Tarita Aprilani Sitinjak Building Engineering Education, University of Palangka Raya, Yos Sudarso Street, Palangka Raya, Indonesia.
Eldy Indra Purnawan Forest Service, Central Kalimantan Province, Imam Bonjol Street, Palangka Raya, Indonesia.
Riska Ovany Public Health Study Program, Eka Harapan Health College, Beliang Street, Palangka Raya, Indonesia.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25299/jgeet.2026.11.1.22348

Keywords:

Sebangau Watershed, Peat Swamp Forest Fires, How People Act dan Fire, Community-Based Fire Safety

Abstract

The frequent forest fires along the Sebangau River in Central Kalimantan, particularly during the dry season, have emerged as a significant environmental issue, driven by human activities such as the burning of wild pandanus on the riverbanks to facilitate the deployment of fishing equipment. This study examines the correlation between community behavior, particularly among fishermen, and the occurrence of forest fires in the Sebangau watershed, while also investigating the causes of these fires. The research methodology employs a combined approach, using remote sensing analysis (MODIS) to map forest fire patterns spatially, alongside observations from local groups to gather qualitative data on land-burning practices. The study's findings indicated that forest fires along the Sebangau River were predominantly caused by fishermen burning wild pandanus, often leading to uncontrolled spread. The El Niño phenomenon exacerbates drought conditions that instigate fires. This study underscores the significance of a community-oriented strategy for forest fire mitigation and the necessity of sustainable management practices that foster collaboration between governmental entities and communities to reduce the likelihood of future forest fires.

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