Agroforestry Systems Prevailing in Garhwal Himalayas: A Review

Abstract

This review is to understand the Socio-economic importance and documentize various agroforestry Systems in Garhwal region. Agroforestry systems are reported to provide better sustainability in terms of soil biota, soil physic- chemical properties and ecological balance. The North Western Himalayan frontier encompasses a rich flora and fauna biodiversity. It is considered as hub of numerous medicinal and aromatic plants which are of prime importance for the local peoples and industries. The Garhwal region of this frontier particularly consists of numerous agroforestry systems. Indigenous and traditional agroforestry systems through ages have helped in enhancing agroforestry species their medicinal value. Systems like agri-silviculture, silvi-pastoral, horti-silvi systems are prominently followed in this region. Temperate fruit crops like citrus, apple, peach and plum are major crops with forest crops. Several agroforestry methods are said to produce more crops because, in contrast to monoculture, the soil is regularly supplied with nutrients. Although farmers own less land on average (0.5 ha), various forest tree species in this area contribute to productivity. The multipurpose tree species grown on boundaries not only enriches biodiversity but also enhances farmer’s income of the region. The native agroforestry system plays an important role in diminishing pressure from forest resources. Traditional Agroforestry Systems have many ecological and economic benefits and it is these reasons that have made it thrive over time. The recognition of various agroforestry systems in recent times have increased worldwide as it paves way for efficient land use planning and sustainability of food security. Further research needs to be done in this arena to standardize agroforestry system on the basis of region and climate.