Agroforestry mapping and characterization in four districts of Garhwal Himalaya

Farmers in the Indian Himalayan region have been practicing agroforestry since time immoral. Agroforestry practice complements hill farming and forms the backbone of subsistence agriculture. The present study was carried out in four districts of Garhwal Himalaya. Agroforestry area was demarcated using Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System techniques. The information regarding agriculture and tree crop pattern was collected through questionnaire survey and direct observations. The agri-horti-silviculture is very common practice of this region. As compared to geographical area the net sown area is very low with wide variations within study area. A small portion of the net sown area has been utilized for the agroforestry purpose. Topographical factors play a crucial role in utilization of the land for agroforestry purpose. Highest agroforestry area, as well the highest agroforestry land as percentage of total geographical area, was estimated as 2.13 % in one of the district of study area. Within 300–7100 m a.s.l. of study area, maximum agroforestry was found in 1201–1600 m a.s.l. altitudinal zone and in 21°–30° slope. Cropping pattern is dominated by the traditional and low productivity crops, providing basic livelihood for a vast majority of the population. Many farmers in the Garhwal Himalayan areas are struggling to make a livelihood due to lack of other avenues of employment and small land holdings, leading to migration of mountain people toward plains. It is presumed that the rate of migration can be reduced once the agroforestry potential of this area is harnessed at an optimum level.