Current Status and Stand Structure of Riverine Forests of Sukkur, Sindh
Current Status and Stand Structure of Riverine Forests of Sukkur, Sindh
Anwar Ali1*, Muhammad Ayaz Khan2, Muhammad Atif Majeed1 and Nowsherwan Zarif1
ABSTRACT
A study was conducted to assess the current status, structure, and growing stock of riverine forests in Sukkur District. Data was collected from 751 sample plots laid out in different forest areas through a systematic random sampling design using a grid of 500 m x 500 m. It was found that the Riverine forests of Sukkur are highly degraded, and only 28% of the forest cover exists. Species diversity is quite low as only 7 different species were recorded during the field measurements. Tamarix dioca has dominated the growing stock with a 41% share in the total trees, followed by Acacia nilotica and Prosopis cineraria, each having a 27% share in the growing stock. The average stocking was estimated at 90 trees per ha, which is quite low compared to a well-stocked riverine forest or plantation. The average diameter at breast height (DBH) was recorded as 12.49 cm, and the average tree height was estimated as 6.78 m. The average canopy cover is 30% in the area. The total growing stock in the landscape was estimated as 51,978 m3. The average growing stock was determined as 7.94 m3 per ha. The growing stock level in riverine forests in the study area is far lower than that of the normal riverine forest. The study recommends adopting effective measures for the rehabilitation of these forests. These measures may include control of open grazing and cutting of trees through community participation and restoration of landscape through artificial regeneration techniques such as through sowing and planting. Preparation and implementation of forest management is also required to ensure sustainable forest management in the area.
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