Potential Deforestation and Greenhouse Gas Emission from Tree-Based Land Use Systems in Kashmir Himalayas

Abstract

The present study was reported in context of potential deforestation and its impact on GHG emissions from tree-based land use system of Ganderbal district in Kashmir Himalayas. The present study was aimed at quantifying and estimating the potential deforestation of different tree-based land-use systems and their role in mitigating climate change. Most of the tree species grown under agroforestry were local and multipurpose trees that were economically useful to the farmers. Poplar (Populus deltoids) was the most predominant species followed by willow, (Salix alba), Apricot (Prunus armeniaca) apple (Malus domestica), and Kiker (Robinia pseudoacacia). The majority of the tree species under agroforestry were maintained for fuelwood and fodder, and only a few species for timber. Populus deltoides, Populus nigra, Salix alba, and Salix fragilis were found to be highly preferred for fuelwood, fodder, and timber extraction. The average biomass (fuelwood, fodder, and small timber extraction of 297 Q/yr and potential deforestation of 156.32 Q/yr was recorded from the study area. Horti-Silvi-pastoral systems and Homegardens were recorded for the highest biomass extraction. Hence these trees-based land use systems can be utilized for small-scale needs and deforestation can be reduced.