<![CDATA[Acacia mearnsii-based rotational cropping was introduced to Ethiopia's highlands in the past two decades for its charcoal production and soil enhancement benefits. However, since 2020, plantations have been threatened by disease infestation. This study examines the distribution of Uromycladium acaciae on Acacia mearnsii and its management options in Fagita Lekoma, Ethiopia. Using systematic sampling, 28 woodlots were established. Data collection employed transect walks, 140 household interviews, 11 informant interviews, and 3 group discussions. Plantation size was analyzed using analysis of variance, while the relationship between education level and disease management decisions was tested using chi-square with R-software. Results revealed that only 4.5-, 5.5-, and 6.5-year plantations were observed during field assessment. Plantations less than 4-year old were not observed. New plantings in the past three consecutive years were abandoned. Complete (100%) distribution occurred in woodlots aged 4.5 and 5.5 years, however, a slight reduction (90.3%) was observed in 6.5-year woodlots. Seedlings and younger trees were more damaged than mature trees. Tree producers did not implement any cultural control measures and lacked information about the occurrence, identity, and damage caused by diseases. Instead, they converted their younger plantations to other land uses and harvested older ones for fences, firewood, and charcoal. The disease was perceived as severe during the rainy seasons (74.6%). Most respondents (94.3%) were still interested in production and related activities, while 5.7% were strongly discouraged. Commencing plantations with a mix of non-target, fast-growing, and environmentally-friendly trees is ideal. Research on the integrated management of Uromycladium acaciae should be strengthened.]]>
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