Forestry is the science and practice of planting, managing and using forests and their resources. Agroforestry combines trees with crops or animals on the same land.
Forest Resources (Products)
- Timber: for building, furniture and construction.
- Fuel wood and charcoal: for cooking and heating.
- Non-timber products: fruits, nuts, gums, resins, medicinal plants and honey.
Importance of Forests
- Provide timber and other products.
- Prevent soil erosion (roots bind the soil).
- Provide habitat for wildlife.
- Regulate the climate and rainfall.
- Provide employment.
Forest Management and Conservation
- Afforestation: planting trees where none existed before.
- Reforestation: replanting trees in deforested areas.
- Controlled felling: cutting only mature trees and replanting.
- Forest reserves: protecting areas from farming and settlement.
- Taungya system: growing crops between young forest trees.
Key terms: Afforestation = new forest; reforestation = replanting; deforestation = clearing forests. Deforestation causes erosion, loss of wildlife and climate change.
Summary
Forests provide timber, fuel and non-timber products and protect the environment. They are conserved through afforestation, reforestation, controlled felling and forest reserves. Agroforestry combines trees with crops or animals.
Comments