(a) Define the term " Conservation". (b) State three reasons for conservation. (c) List four methods of conserving each of the following: (i) water (ii) wil...

(a) Conservation is the wise and careful management, protection and use of natural resources (such as soil, water, forests and wildlife) so that they are not destroyed, exhausted or wasted, but are preserved for the benefit of present and future generations.

(b) Three reasons for conservation

• To prevent the extinction of plant and animal species and to preserve biodiversity.
• To ensure a continuous supply of natural resources (food, timber, water, medicine) for present and future generations.
• To maintain the balance of nature and protect the environment from degradation such as erosion, flooding and desertification (also for recreation, tourism, research and educational value).

(c) Four methods of conserving each resource

(i) Water

• Building dams and reservoirs to store water.
• Preventing pollution of rivers, lakes and streams.
• Afforestation to protect catchment areas and reduce run-off.
• Recycling waste water and avoiding wasteful use.

(ii) Wildlife

• Establishing game reserves and national parks.
• Making and enforcing laws against poaching and indiscriminate hunting (control of hunting by licences and closed seasons).
• Protecting the natural habitats of animals from destruction.
• Breeding endangered species in captivity (zoos) and restocking.

(iii) Forest

• Afforestation and reafforestation (planting of new trees).
• Controlled or selective felling of trees.
• Prevention and control of bush fires.
• Establishing forest reserves and enforcing forest laws.

(d) Three forest or game reserves in Nigeria

• Yankari Game Reserve (National Park), Bauchi State.
• Kainji Lake National Park, Niger/Kwara State.
• Old Oyo National Park (Oyo State), or Cross River National Park, Cross River State.