Abstract

Background: Forests are crucial for maintaining carbon balance, as they function both as carbon sources and as sinks that absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere, thereby helping to mitigate climate change. Forest ecosystems store over 80% of all terrestrial above ground carbon and more than 70% of soil carbon. A systematic sampling method was used to collect vegetation data. A total of 50 plots, each with 400 m2 (20 m × 20 m), were established along eight lines transect to estimate the carbon stock of the forest. Litter, herb, and grass samples were collected from the four corners and the center of each main sample plot using subplots measuring 2 m × 2 m (4 m2). The collected samples were weighed in the field to determine their fresh weight, and a 100 g composite sub-sample was taken from each plot for further analysis. The soil samples were collected from four corners and the center of each plot at a depth of 30 cm. All the collected plant species were identified in Debre Markos University Biology Department Herbarium Room. Results: The mean above ground biomass and carbon stock stored in tree species per plot were 712.51 and 334.88 ton ha–1, respectively. The mean biomass and carbon stock in the litter carbon stock of Jiga Forest were 2.68 ton ha–1 and 1.26 ton ha–1, respectively. The mean soil organic carbon of Jiga forest was 248.06 ton ha–1. Conclusions: The carbon stock assessment of Jiga Forest exhibits a high mean above ground biomass and carbon stock due to its rich species composition and the presence of mature, large diameter trees.