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RESTORATION OF HABITATS

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The natural vegetation ranges from the climax tropical evergreen to semi-evergreen forests along the high rainfall area in the western side to the moist deciduous forest in the undulating plains and low hills along the eastern drier tracts of the river basin. The evergreen to semi-evergreen forests is the major sources of perennial water sources through the catchment of Sharavathi. On the other hand in the deciduous tract, the streams dry up in the summer months. Therefore conservation of evergreen forests and restoration of such forests in the eastern parts of the catchment are of paramount importance.

Reforestation should not merely be a simple agglomeration of useful fast growing trees, but should stabilize ecosystem with built in dynamics of regeneration of multiplier effect. This would aid in natural balance in climate abetting rich growth of flora and fauna. Trees indigenous to the natural habitats of the region must be given due importance. Local demands of fuel, fodder and medicine and minor forest produce like gum, fruits, spice etc. should also be considered. While planning, emphasis need to be laid on species that would meet fuel, fodder and biomass requirements of artisans like potters, basket makers mat weavers, wood carvers etc.

List of plants recommended for restoration of forests especially in the drier eastern side of the catchment is given in Table 1.