Wasteland Afforestation

Abstract

Half of the land mass of India is degraded. The productivity of this land is far below its potential. Wastelands are formed primarily by misuse or overuse. Large bovine population, far beyond the capacity of pasture lands, has been a major factor in the formation of such lands. Impeded drainage due to construction of embankments, roads and canals are creating new wastelands. Usar, ravines, degraded hills, and water logged areas due to canal seepage, from the major part of degraded lands. With Proper methodology of planting, correct choice of species and protection all degraded lands can be made productive. Afforestation of such lands will increase productivity of neighbouring agriculture lands by reducing salinity and improving water regime. Aerial seeding as a method of afforestation of such lands has been a costly failure.