Regeneration Problem in Cedrus deodara (Roxb.) G. Don Dominated Forests of Kumaun Himalayan Region

Abstract

Regeneration is crucial for forest species survival, ensuring desired composition and stocking. This study investigates the regeneration status of Cedrus deodara across six forest sites in the Kumaun Himalaya, at elevations ranging from 1600 to 2400 masl. At lower elevations (1600-2000 masl), total tree density of C. deodara ranged from 606.67 to 786.67 ind ha^-1, showing fair regeneration with 13.33 to 160 ind ha^-1 seedling density and 226.67 to 353.33 ind ha^-1 sapling density. In contrast, at middle elevations (2000-2400 masl), total tree density of C. deodara ranged from 586.67 to 660 ind ha^-1 and showed poor regeneration. Absence of seedlings was conspicuous at middle elevations. Species richness was very low at lower elevations, as C. deodara formed pure patches, while middle elevations had higher tree richness but lower diversity and evenness. The absence of regeneration at middle elevations can be attributed to high anthropogenic activities. Significant human activities such as picnicking, overgrazing, and fuelwood extraction at middle elevations led to 0% regeneration, whereas sites with restricted human access at lower elevations showed better regeneration. These findings highlight the need for effective forest management and conservation strategies to ensure the sustainability and resilience of C. deodara dominated forest stands.