Forest

Institution: In-House Study

Overview: The study signifies the changes in forest cover at the district level. The Forest and tree cover of TN is now about 30,843.23 sq. km which constitutes 23.71 % of the total geographical area. The State is taking up all efforts to reach its objective of 33 % of green cover before 2030. The data and analysis from this report would serve as critical inputs for policy making in the forestry sector of Tamil Nadu.

Institution: In-House Study

Overview: Invasive alien plant species are a major driver of biodiversity loss, posing significant threats to the health of the forests. Management of invasive alien plant species needs a focused and dynamic approach based on studies and field experiences. An understanding of changes in spatial and temporal distribution and abundance of invasive alien plant species is crucial.
To address this pressing issue, the State Planning Commission, in conjunction with the Tamil Nadu State Land Use Research Board and the Forest College & Research Institute, orchestrated the ``International Workshop on Management of Forest Invasive Species`` during 2nd and 3rd February 2023 at Mettupalayam
The workshop urges the departments concerned to identify the baseline, carry out assessment using standard scientific methods using geospatial technology, and develop a strategy using the decision support system.

Institution: Forest Department

Overview: The study on sacred groves undertaken by the Tamil Nadu State Land Use Research Board (TNSLURB) aims to document, conserve, and integrate these ecologically significant sites into land use planning and environmental policy. Sacred groves, traditionally protected forest patches associated with cultural and religious beliefs, serve as vital reservoirs of biodiversity, support groundwater recharge, and act as carbon sinks. By mapping and analyzing these groves, the study contributes to preserving traditional ecological knowledge, promoting climate resilience, and enhancing green infrastructure. The findings are intended to guide planning authorities in framing conservation strategies and recognizing sacred groves as critical natural assets in sustainable development and climate adaptation frameworks.

Institution: Annamalai University

Overview: This study assesses land use conversion in Tamil Nadu’s Cuddalore and Viluppuram coastal districts. It identifies constraints in acquiring land for tree plantations, recommends cashew and casuarina cultivation, and emphasizes policies like Coastal Regulation Act enforcement, farmer awareness, and public-private partnerships to preserve coastal areas, combat land degradation, and promote sustainable greening initiatives.

Institution: Department of Forests, Chennai

Overview: The Massive Tree Planting Programme (MTPP) launched in Tamil Nadu aims to increase green cover. Evaluation in Cuddalore District utilized field inventory and satellite analysis, revealing a 26.50% survival rate of planted seedlings. Satellite images indicated a 66 sq. km rise in forest/tree cover, accounting for 13.5% of the district’s area, showcasing the program’s impact assessment.

Institution: Department of Forests, Chennai

Overview: The study evaluates forest vulnerability to fires in Tamil Nadu using Geographic Information Science. Analyzing factors like topography, vegetation, and human presence, it identifies 56% as highly susceptible areas and 30% as moderately vulnerable. Insights reveal specific forest types and regions prone to fires, aiding in management planning. The research aims to guide forest fire mitigation strategies in the state.

Institution: Department of Forests, Chennai

Overview: Urbanization in India signifies economic growth but often lacks planning, leading to unsustainable land use, environmental degradation, and issues like pollution and traffic congestion. Rapid and unregulated urban development alters landscapes, impacting microclimates. The study uses satellite imagery to evaluate vegetation cover in five corporation areas to increase urban green cover.

Institution: Madurai Kamaraj University (MKU), Madurai

Overview: This study investigates the ecological, sociological, and economic impacts of invasive Pterygoplichthys species in the Cauvery and Vaigai river basins in Tamil Nadu. Objectives include assessing the distribution, abundance, reproductive potential, water quality influence, and impacts, aiming to devise strategies to mitigate population growth and prevent further invasion in non-invaded regions.