Forest Composition and Resource Utilization Patterns in Relation to Anthropogenic Pressure in Moist Temperate Forests of the Garhwal Himalaya

Abstract

This study investigates the intricate dynamics of vegetation composition and ecosystem services in temperate forests, focusing on the influence of elevation, forest types, and anthropogenic pressures on vegetation composition across different strata in moist temperate forests of Chamoli District, Garhwal Himalaya, Uttarakhand, India. Spanning an altitudinal range of 1500-3000 m asl. Species richness varied from 5 to 33 across forest types, with Shannon and Simpson diversity indices ranging from 1.38-2.81 and 0.69-0.93 for trees, 1.54-3.98 and 0.71-0.90 for shrubs, and 2.23-3.43 and 0.88-0.96 for herbs, respectively. Mixed broad-leaved forest (FT5) had the highest tree density (1450 ind ha⁻¹), while mainly Quercus semecarpifolia forest (FT10) recorded the largest basal area (116.36 m² ha⁻¹). Local communities depend on these forests for fuelwood, fodder, non-timber forest products (NTFPs), and medicinal plants. However, widespread anthropogenic disturbances, including lopping and stump extraction, were observed, with an average disturbance index of 10.60%. Mixed broad-leaved forest (FT4) experienced the highest disturbance (18.18%), while Quercus floribunda forest (FT9) had the lowest (6.45%). Lopping intensity was highest (29.73%) in Mixed Quercus leucotrichophora forest (FT1) and lowest (7.28%) in Mainly Abies pindrow forest (FT7). The findings highlight significant biodiversity in the region, but also substantial anthropogenic pressure, especially near settlements. The study emphasizes the urgent need for targeted conservation measures and sustainable management strategies to balance community reliance on forest resources with the preservation of forest health and ecosystem services.