Community empowerment strategies and disaster mitigation in Padusan Village, Mojokerto, East Java: A case study of the integrated agroforestry approach by the ‘Pesona Alam Lestari’ Forest Village Community Institution (LMDH)

This research aims to understand how the ‘Pesona Alam Lestari’ Forest Village Community Institution (LMDH) in Padusan Village, Mojokerto, East Java, implements community empowerment strategies and disaster mitigation in their operations. LMDH ‘Pesona Alam Lestari’ manages an area of 319.2 hectares (222 hectares in protected forest, 97.2 hectares in production forest) and operates various economic enterprises under the umbrella of agroforestry. These include hot spring tourism, livestock farming, outbound & rafting activities, camping grounds, and waterfall tours. In terms of environmental management, they collaborate with the provincial government in reforestation of critical land. The research methodology involves collecting and analyzing secondary data, interviews with LMDH ‘Pesona Alam Lestari’ members and local community members, and Geographical Information System (GIS) analysis to understand the spatial patterns of disaster risk. Methods such as observation, focus group discussions, and in-depth interviews were utilized for qualitative data. The challenges faced in this management include low involvement from the youth and limitations in managerial management. This research will provide important insights into how local communities can be empowered and how they can reduce their risk and enhance their resilience to natural disasters through the integrated agroforestry approach of LMDH ‘Pesona Alam Lestari’.


Introduction
In the modern era, the importance of community empowerment in the realm of natural resource management and disaster mitigation has become increasingly evident.As global challenges such as climate change, deforestation, and natural disasters intensify, the need for sustainable and communitydriven solutions becomes paramount.Agroforestry, a practice that integrates trees, crops, and sometimes livestock on the same plot of land, has emerged as a promising approach to address these challenges.Not only does it offer environmental benefits, but it also provides socio-economic advantages to local communities.Community empowerment in the context of agroforestry and disaster mitigation is not just about involving local people in decision-making processes; it's about equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to take charge of their own 1314 (2024) 012068 IOP Publishing doi:10.1088/1755-1315/1314/1/012068 2 development and resilience.As Trisna [1] highlighted, community-driven strategies, such as the green revitalization system, can play a pivotal role in landslide disaster mitigation.Similarly, the work of Paschalia [2] underscores the significance of community-based approaches in disaster mitigation management.
Furthermore, the role of agroforestry in climate change mitigation cannot be understated.A study by the International Institute for Science, Technology and Education emphasized the potential of agroforestry systems in mitigating climate change impacts in tropical regions of Africa [3].Such systems not only contribute to carbon sequestration but also enhance ecosystem resilience.Moreover, the literature suggests that sustainable development hinges on community participation and empowerment.A chapter by Routledge delves into the foundations of sustainable development, emphasizing the role of local resource management [4].In a similar vein, Sunkar and Santosa discuss the concept of low resource use and high yield in the context of climate-smart community empowerment [5].In light of the above, this article seeks to explore the synergies between community empowerment, agroforestry, and disaster mitigation.Through a comprehensive review of existing literature and case studies, we aim to shed light on best practices and provide recommendations for future endeavors in this domain.
Padusan Village is located in Puri Subdistrict, Mojokerto Regency, East Java Province, Indonesia.Based on the Decision of the Minister of Environment and Forestry of the Republic of Indonesia Number SK.6793/MENLHK-PSKL/PKPS/PSL.0/8/2019, the 'Pesona Alam Lestari' Forest Village Community Institution (LMDH/Lembaga Masyarakat Desa Hutan) is a community group that has received recognition and forestry partnership protection with the Forest Management Unit (KPH) of Pasuruan, covering an area of approximately 319.2 hectares (with 222 hectares in protected forest and 97.2 hectares in production forest) located in Padusan Village, Pacet Subdistrict, Mojokerto Regency, East Java Province.The permissible activities in this area include: 1) Safeguarding the forest resources within the forestry partnership agreement area.2) Securing the area covered by the forestry partnership agreement.3) Planting, maintaining, and harvesting fast-growing forestry plants in the permanent community forest production function.4) Utilization and cultivation of non-timber forest products.5) Intercropping with annual plants.6) Utilizing land under the canopy.7) Ecotourism.8) Other environmental services.9) Rehabilitation of Protection Areas/Protected Forests.
Since the issuance of the Ministerial Decree, the 'Pesona Alam Lestari' Forest Village Community Institution in Padusan Village, Mojokerto, East Java, has been actively implementing community empowerment strategies and disaster mitigation measures within their operations in the production forest.Furthermore, they have been managing various economic enterprises under the principles of agroforestry.These initiatives not only promote sustainable forest management but also provide economic opportunities for the local community, ensuring a harmonious balance between environmental conservation and socio-economic development.These include ventures such as hot spring eco-tourism, livestock farming, outbound & rafting activities, camping grounds, and waterfall tours.In terms of environmental management, they collaborate with the provincial government in reforestation of critical land.This research aims to understand how the 'Pesona Alam Lestari' Forest Village Community Institution (LMDH) in Padusan Village, Mojokerto, East Java, implements community empowerment strategies and disaster mitigation in their operations.

Methods
In the realm of community development and resilience, the role of research methodologies cannot be understated.A comprehensive approach that integrates both secondary and primary data collection, coupled with advanced techniques like Geographical Information System (GIS) analysis, provides a holistic understanding of the subject at hand.The significance of interviews in capturing the lived experiences and perspectives of community members is well-documented.Lathlean and Denicolo [7] emphasize the depth and richness that interviews bring to research, allowing for a nuanced understanding of community dynamics.
Moreover, the integration of GIS in research offers a spatial dimension, enabling researchers to visualize and interpret data in its geographical context, as highlighted by Tian, Cudney, and Chulick [8].However, beyond these methods, the essence of community research lies in empowerment.Empowerment in research, as described by SAGE Publications, is a process that fosters power in individuals and communities, enabling them to take action to solve their problems [9].This is further elaborated upon in the concept of Empowerment Evaluation, which is an evaluation approach that aims to help communities assess and improve their performance [10].
Participatory action research, which emphasizes collaboration between researchers and participants, is another pivotal method in community empowerment.Dudgeon [11] discuss how this approach facilitates empowerment and self-determination, underscoring its significance in communitybased research.The synergy of diverse research methodologies, from interviews to GIS analysis, coupled with an emphasis on empowerment, provides a robust framework for understanding and enhancing community empowerment strategies, especially in the context of agroforestry and disaster mitigation.

Research Location
Padusan Village is a picturesque locale that embodies the serene beauty and rich cultural tapestry of East Java (Figure 1).As one ventures into this village, the verdant landscapes and terraced fields present a harmonious blend of nature and human endeavor, reflecting centuries of agricultural tradition.The village's proximity to the Arjuna-Welirang mountains not only bestows it with a cool and temperate climate but also enriches its soil, making it fertile ground for diverse agricultural practices.Over the years, the community has harnessed the bounties of this land, cultivating a range of crops and pioneering sustainable agroforestry practices.Beyond its agricultural pursuits, Padusan Village is a melting pot of Javanese culture and traditions.The local community, known for its warmth and hospitality, takes immense pride in its heritage, celebrating it through various festivals, art forms, and communal activities.The village's traditional architecture, with intricately designed homes and communal spaces, stands as a testament to its rich history and craftsmanship.However, the village's location also presents certain challenges.Being at the base of the Arjuna-Welirang mountains means that it is susceptible to natural hazards, necessitating robust disaster mitigation strategies.Over time, the community, with support from various institutions, has developed resilience mechanisms to safeguard their livelihoods and the environment.

Data Collection and Analysis
Certainly, the integration of secondary data in research offers a cost-efficient approach that enables access to diverse datasets; however, the challenge lies in validating its reliability and ensuring its relevance to the current study [12,13].Interviews serve as another indispensable research method that captures qualitative insights into participant experiences.A likely semi-structured approach in this study permits flexibility while addressing targeted questions, and various techniques such as narrationbased and key informant interviews can significantly enrich the data [14,15].
Advancing from qualitative methods, the Geographical Information System (GIS) provides a platform for the nuanced analysis of spatial patterns and risks, particularly in the study of agroforestry practices and their impact on disaster risks [16][17][18].Complementing GIS, other qualitative data collection methods like observations, focus groups, and in-depth interviews offer a holistic and nuanced understanding of the subject matter, capturing the complexities and nuances of human experiences [19,20].
Finally, the diverse data generated from these methods demand a systematic approach to integration and analysis.Qualitative data can be coded for thematic analysis, while GIS data can be digitized for spatial analysis.Tools and frameworks that facilitate multi-method data visualization can play a critical role in synthesizing and interpreting these diverse datasets, providing a more comprehensive understanding of the research topic at hand [21, 22,23].For a visual representation of the research methodologies employed, refer to Figure 2.

Results and Discussion
The process of data collection is a foundational step in any research endeavor, providing the raw material upon which analysis and conclusions are based.In the context of the study on LMDH 'Pesona Alam Lestari', a multi-faceted approach to data collection was employed to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the community's experiences, perceptions, and the impact of the institution's initiatives.Secondary data, which refers to data previously collected for other purposes, was harnessed to provide a background on the history, objectives, and operations of LMDH 'Pesona Alam Lestari'.This type of data is invaluable as it offers a broad overview, saving time and resources that would be spent on primary data collection [25].
Interviews, both structured and unstructured, were conducted with members of LMDH 'Pesona Alam Lestari' and the local community.These interviews provided firsthand insights into the lived experiences of the community, their perceptions of the institution's initiatives, and the challenges and benefits they have encountered.Interviews are a cornerstone of qualitative research, allowing for a deep dive into individual experiences and perspectives [26].Furthermore, Geographical Information System (GIS) analysis was employed to provide a spatial dimension to the research.This involved mapping out areas managed by LMDH 'Pesona Alam Lestari' and overlaying this with data on disaster risks.GIS analysis is a powerful tool in research, enabling the visualization and interpretation of data in its geographical context [27].In essence, the collected data, derived from diverse sources and methods, offers a holistic view of the community's engagement with LMDH 'Pesona Alam Lestari', the impact of their agroforestry initiatives, and the spatial patterns of disaster risk in the region.

Community Empowerment Strategies
Community empowerment is a multifaceted concept that revolves around the idea of enabling communities to take control of their circumstances, make decisions, and implement actions that lead to their betterment.Analyzing the strategies for community empowerment is crucial to understand their effectiveness, challenges, and the potential for scalability.In the context of LMDH 'Pesona Alam Lestari', the strategies for community empowerment likely revolve around the integration of agroforestry practices, economic ventures, and disaster mitigation efforts.The primary objective would be to ensure that the community not only benefits economically but also becomes more resilient to environmental challenges.
One of the key strategies in community empowerment is the active involvement of community members in decision-making processes.This ensures that the strategies are tailored to the specific needs and preferences of the community, leading to better acceptance and more sustainable outcomes [28].Another pivotal strategy is capacity building.By equipping community members with the necessary skills, knowledge, and resources, they can effectively manage their resources, engage in profitable ventures, and mitigate potential risks.This not only fosters a sense of ownership but also ensures the long-term sustainability of the initiatives [29].Collaboration with external stakeholders, such as the provincial government in the case of LMDH 'Pesona Alam Lestari', can also amplify the impact of empowerment strategies.Such collaborations can bring in additional resources, expertise, and support, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the empowerment initiatives [30].However, it's essential to continuously evaluate and adapt these strategies based on feedback from the community and changing circumstances.This iterative approach ensures that the strategies remain relevant and effective in achieving the desired outcomes.The analysis of community empowerment strategies provides insights into their strengths, areas of improvement, and the potential for replication in similar contexts.By understanding these strategies in-depth, stakeholders can make informed decisions that lead to more empowered and resilient communities

Agroforestry Practices and Their Impact
Agroforestry, an integrated land use system that combines trees, crops, and sometimes livestock on the same plot of land, has emerged as a promising approach for sustainable development.This multifaceted system offers a plethora of environmental benefits, including enhanced biodiversity, improved soil fertility, water conservation, and carbon sequestration, acting as a buffer against climate change [31].Beyond the environmental advantages, agroforestry holds significant socio-economic potential.By diversifying income sources through the integration of trees, crops, and livestock, farmers can mitigate risks associated with market fluctuations or crop failures.The products derived from these systems, ranging from fruits and nuts to timber, can command premium prices, bolstering the economic resilience of communities [32].Furthermore, the diverse range of food products produced in these systems can significantly contribute to food security, ensuring a consistent food supply throughout the year, even during off-seasons(3).However, the success of agroforestry is not without challenges.Initial investments, the maturation time for trees, and potential resource conflicts between trees and crops are some considerations.Yet, with active community involvement in selecting tree species, designing the system, and managing practices, these challenges can be navigated, harnessing the full potential of agroforestry for a sustainable future [32].

Disaster Mitigation Efforts
Disaster mitigation refers to the strategies and actions taken to reduce or eliminate the adverse impacts of potential disasters on communities, infrastructure, and the environment.In the context of LMDH 'Pesona Alam Lestari' and the broader Padusan Village, disaster mitigation efforts are of paramount importance given the potential environmental challenges and the community's reliance on agroforestry practices.One of the primary disaster mitigation efforts in such contexts involves the reforestation of critical lands.Reforestation not only helps in carbon sequestration but also plays a crucial role in preventing soil erosion, reducing the risk of landslides, and maintaining the water table [33].Additionally, the integration of agroforestry practices can act as a buffer against natural disasters by diversifying the landscape and creating barriers against potential threats such as floods.Education and awareness campaigns are also pivotal in disaster mitigation.By equipping the community with knowledge about potential risks and best practices, they can take proactive measures to safeguard their livelihoods and assets.For instance, a study highlighted the effectiveness of "Go Green" education in early childhood for ecological disaster mitigation [34].Collaboration with external stakeholders, such as governmental bodies, can further enhance disaster mitigation efforts.Infrastructure improvements, early warning systems, and community drills can be implemented with the support of these stakeholders, ensuring that the community is well-prepared to face potential disasters.
Moreover, specific training programs targeting key community members can be instrumental.A research study emphasized the importance of nursing disaster education among school students and teachers, showcasing how targeted training can lead to improved fire disaster mitigation efforts [35].Disaster mitigation efforts are multifaceted and require a combination of proactive strategies, community involvement, and external support.By understanding and implementing these efforts, communities like Padusan Village can enhance their resilience and ensure the sustainable management of their resources.

Spatial Patterns of Disaster Risk
In the context of the study on LMDH 'Pesona Alam Lestari', understanding the spatial patterns of disaster risk is crucial to effectively implement disaster mitigation strategies.Spatial patterns refer to the arrangement of phenomena or features in space, and in the realm of disaster risk, they provide insights into areas of vulnerability and potential hazard exposure.By analyzing these patterns, communities can prioritize areas for intervention, allocate resources more efficiently, and design strategies tailored to specific risk profiles.A study by Sakieh (2017) underscores the importance of understanding the effect of spatial patterns on the vulnerability of urban areas to flooding [36].The research highlights that the spatial arrangement of urban infrastructure, combined with natural terrain features, can significantly influence landslide vulnerability (Figure 3).Such insights are invaluable for communities like Padusan Village, as they can inform land-use decisions, infrastructure development, and community awareness initiatives.Furthermore, a dissertation by Brecht (2022) delves into the application of spatial methods in disaster risk management, emphasizing the role of natural hazards, risk analysis, and emergency preparedness [37].The research underscores the significance of spatial tools in assessing hazard exposure, modeling risk scenarios, and designing evacuation routes.For LMDH 'Pesona Alam Lestari', such tools can be instrumental in understanding the spatial distribution of disaster risks within the managed agroforestry areas and the broader community.Additionally, Tatano et al. (2013) discuss the long-term consequences of information provision in a spatial economy, particularly focusing on risk perception, location choice, and land-use patterns under disaster risk [38].The study suggests that providing communities with spatially-relevant risk information can influence their land-use decisions, location preferences, and overall risk perception.This is particularly relevant for LMDH 'Pesona Alam Lestari', as understanding these dynamics can guide community engagement efforts, risk communication strategies, and land management practices.In conclusion, understanding the spatial patterns of disaster risk is not just about mapping hazard zones; it's about integrating this knowledge into community decision-making, resource allocation, and overall disaster mitigation strategy.By leveraging spatial tools and insights, LMDH 'Pesona Alam Lestari' can enhance its resilience and reduce its vulnerability to potential hazards.

Challenges in Community Empowerment in LMDH 'Pesona Alam Lestari'
The study on LMDH 'Pesona Alam Lestari' highlighted several challenges in community empowerment.One of the primary challenges was the low involvement of the youth.This mirrors global concerns where younger generations, despite being digitally connected, often remain disengaged from community-driven initiatives.According to Islam (2016), while NGOs and community institutions play a pivotal role in fostering social capital and community empowerment, they often face limitations stemming from local dynamics [39].In the context of LMDH 'Pesona Alam Lestari', these dynamics might include traditional beliefs, economic pressures, or the allure of urban opportunities for the youth.Another challenge highlighted was limitations in managerial management.Effective management is crucial for the success of community-driven initiatives.The integration of modern management practices with traditional community values can sometimes pose challenges, leading to inefficiencies or conflicts.

Community Feedback and Insights in the LMDH 'Pesona Alam Lestari' Study:
The research emphasized the importance of feedback from both LMDH 'Pesona Alam Lestari' members and the broader community.Cuevas (1991) underscores the significance of feedback in research projects, suggesting that it can provide insights into the effectiveness of strategies and interventions [40].In the context of LMDH 'Pesona Alam Lestari', such feedback would be invaluable in understanding the community's perceptions of the agroforestry initiatives, their impact on disaster mitigation, and the overall benefits to the community.Furthermore, Chong (2019) highlights the importance of understanding specific community group perceptions, which can offer deeper insights into their needs and challenges [41].In the study, such feedback would have played a pivotal role in shaping the research outcomes and recommendations, ensuring they are both relevant and beneficial to the community.
In the context of this study on LMDH 'Pesona Alam Lestari', a comparative analysis would involve juxtaposing the community empowerment strategies, disaster mitigation efforts, and agroforestry practices of LMDH 'Pesona Alam Lestari' with similar initiatives or case studies from other regions or communities.Such an analysis can provide a broader perspective, highlighting the strengths, weaknesses, and unique features of the LMDH 'Pesona Alam Lestari' approach.For instance, the mainstreaming of immigrant integration governance in different contexts offers insights into how governance structures can be adapted to suit specific community needs [42].Additionally, understanding how developmental and non-developmental community college students differ in their educational trajectories can shed light on the diverse needs and challenges faced by different community segments [43].
Based on the findings and comparative analysis, several recommendations can be proposed for LMDH 'Pesona Alam Lestari' and similar community-driven initiatives.Firstly, there's a need to enhance youth involvement in community management, possibly through targeted outreach programs, workshops, and capacity-building sessions.Secondly, addressing managerial limitations through training programs and collaborations with external experts can streamline operations and improve efficiency.Furthermore, leveraging technology, especially GIS tools, can enhance disaster risk assessment and mitigation efforts.For future directions, there's potential in innovative agroforestry practices that integrate modern technology and traditional knowledge.Collaborative research with academic institutions and international organizations can also provide fresh perspectives and resources.Lastly, continuous feedback mechanisms, possibly through annual community surveys or focus group discussions, can ensure that the initiatives remain aligned with the community's evolving needs and aspirations [44].

Conclusions
The study on LMDH 'Pesona Alam Lestari' in Padusan Village, Mojokerto, East Java, provides a comprehensive insight into the intricate interplay between community empowerment, agroforestry practices, and community disaster mitigation efforts.Through a meticulous amalgamation of qualitative research methods, the research illuminated the commendable strides made by the 'Pesona Alam Lestari' Forest Village Community Institution in harnessing the potential of agroforestry for both economic and environmental benefits.The institution's endeavors, ranging from hot spring tourism to reforestation collaborations with the provincial government, underscore the multifaceted advantages of community-driven initiatives.
However, like any community-driven endeavor, challenges persist.The low involvement of the youth and certain managerial limitations highlight areas that require attention and recalibration.Feedback from the community, both commendations and critiques, serves as a testament to the institution's impact and areas of potential improvement.The comparative analysis further positions LMDH 'Pesona Alam Lestari's' efforts within a broader context, emphasizing its unique strengths and areas where it can draw inspiration from other similar initiatives.In light of the findings, the recommendations chart a path forward, emphasizing youth engagement, managerial capacity building, technological integration, and continuous community feedback.As global challenges such as climate change and deforestation intensify, community-driven solutions like those of LMDH 'Pesona Alam Lestari' not only offer a beacon of hope but also a replicable model that can be adapted and adopted by other communities worldwide.In essence, this research underscores the profound impact of grassroots initiatives in fostering sustainable development, community resilience, and environmental stewardship.
Geographically, Padusan is nestled at the base of Mount Welirang.It is specifically located in the Pacet District of Mojokerto Regency, East Java [6].The topography of Padusan Village encompasses hilly terrains, forests, and plantations.The village experiences a tropical climate with average temperatures ranging between 25-30 degrees Celsius.Mojokerto Regency is part of the central corridor development zone, emphasizing cultural heritage tourism and nature tourism, as outlined in the East Java Provincial Regulation No. 2 of 2006.Notably, some of the prime natural tourist attractions of Mojokerto Regency are located in Padusan Village, Pacet Subdistrict.The development of natural tourism in this area aligns with the Mojokerto Regency Spatial Plan for 2012-2032, which designates Pacet Subdistrict as a Nature Tourism Area.Currently, Padusan Village boasts eight main tourist attractions, including Coban Canggu Waterfall, hot spring baths, strawberry picking agrotourism, Grenjengan Waterfall, Padusan Wana Wisata Pacet -KBM Ecotourism by Perhutani, Taman Pelangi, Watu Dakon Tourism, and the Jacuzzi Hot Spring Pool.The management of these diverse tourist attractions in Padusan Village varies, with some overseen by local government, some by private entities, and others by community groups.

Figure 2 .
Figure 2. Diagram of the research methodologies.

Figure 3 .
Figure 3. Padusan Village: Located on an Extremely Sloped Terrain, Posing a High Risk for Landslides