This is a government nature reserve 453 hectares in size, and about 50 years old. Dominant tree species are Celtis mildbraedii and Bosquieia phoberos. A total of 68 tree species were present in the sample area. About 378 individual trees were sampled, making up a density of about 394 trees per hectare. Sapling composition is similar to that of the dominant trees, and regeneration appears not to be a problem. However, the dominance of Euphorbia teke ( a shrub) in the understorey may present a problem to the natural regeneration dynamic of the forest. In sum, The forest is in good condition, with high vegetation density and species diversity.
About 300 people live less than 5Km from the forest edge. Although no commercial harvesting is allowed, the forest has a normal commercial value, and an above normal subsistence value. Main users of forest products include traditional drum makers as well as women who use the forest on a subsistence level. The most serious challenge faced by the forest is with regard to how government employees pursue their duty of law enforcement.
For the most part this causes enmity between the users and the managers of the forest. In addition tree densities are decreasing due to illegal tree felling and natural causes. The users feel that the government is too restrictive. The greatest future opportunity for Mpanga nature reserve is that it may support a lucrative handicraft industry. This is important both for income generation and as an entry point for initiating joint forest management activities between the community and the forest department.