Status of Forest in Nepal

Forests form the essential components of natural environment. Forest provides many things to humans, animals and birds to help them survive Without forests, life would be very difficult on the earth. Nowadays, people are clearing forests for many purposes like urbanization, industrialization and for cultivation.

Recent data shows declination in forest resources of Nepal. In 2026/27 B.S., the forest area was 53.5% but in 2058 BS it was only 29%. Sal, Sesum. Khair, Satisal, Simal, etc. were there in abundance in the Terai and the inner Terai belts. The number of these species is getting reduced now. At present, Simal, which is used for making match stick is becoming scarce. Generally, the houses are made of bamboo, grass, etc. in villages and the canes are used for various purposes. This has caused the scarcity of forest products.

Magnolia, katus, bamboo, tejpat, etc. are found in the eastern region of our country. Oaks, rhododendron and maples are found in abundance in the Himalayan region. Distribution of population is scare in the Himalayan region. This is the reason why the forest of Himalayas is more protected than the Hilly region. Due to increased pressure of population in the Terai and the Hills, signs of deforestation are seen more there.

Causes of declining forest area in Nepal are summarized below:

Population Growth

Fuelwood as a Major Source of Energy

Migration and Settlement in Terai

Livestock and Grazing

Illegal Timber Harvesting and Trade

Developmental Activities

Tourism and Trekking

Political and Nonpolitical Use and Misuse of Forest

Cultural Use of Wood

Importance of Forests:

The forest is an important natural resource of Nepal. The relationship between forest and human beings is evident in every era of human civilization Forest was the habitat of human being in the pre-historic period. Forests are because of the following reasons: 

They regulate climate. 

They are the storehouse of oxygen which is vital for all living beings. 

They help to bring rainfall. 

They provide shelter for countless animals. 

They supply herbs, fruits and flowers to man. 

They protect the soil from erosion and stop landslides and floods. 

They regulate the fertility of soil. Forests serve as natural laboratories where varied researches can be conducted. 

They conserve water sources.

They help to maintain natural beauty.

Then why not to conserve forest. Please save forest and add greenery around your locality.