ARAHAN PENGEMBANGAN WISATA EDUKASI LEMBAH HIJAU SEBAGAI LABORATORIUM ALAM GEOGRAFI BERDASARKAN ANALISIS KELAYAKAN POTENSI

Abstract

Geography learning requires direct experience through fieldwork activities to understand geosphere phenomena in a real context, making the existence of a natural laboratory an essential need in the learning process. Lembah Hijau Educational Tourism, located in Ijobalit Village, Labuhan Haji Subdistrict, possesses a diversity of geosphere phenomena along with educational and historical value that has the potential to be developed as a geography natural laboratory; however, its level of feasibility has not yet been measured. This study aims to analyze the feasibility level of Lembah Hijau Educational Tourism's potential as a geography natural laboratory and to formulate directions for its development. The research employed a descriptive quantitative approach using a scoring method adapted from the ADO-ODTWA feasibility assessment of the Directorate General of Forest Protection and Nature Conservation (2003), which covers four indicators: the diversity of geosphere phenomena, accessibility and site suitability, facilities and infrastructure, and sustainability management. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation. The results show that Lembah Hijau obtained a total feasibility index of 83.07%, categorized as feasible, with the diversity of geosphere phenomena achieving the highest index (91.6%), facilities and infrastructure as well as sustainability management each at 83.3%, and accessibility and site suitability at 78.5%. Based on these findings, development priorities are directed toward improving road access, providing educational trails and observation posts, and strengthening economic activities and community partnerships, so that Lembah Hijau can be optimized as a geography natural laboratory that supports sustainable field-based learning.