Afforestation for Avalanche Prevention and Control

Suddn downward movement of snow due to instability In the snow packs-generally known as avalanches, results in great catastrophies in the Himalayan region resulting in huge loss of life property and facilities. Afferestation is considered to be very important for any avalanche protectIon work where avalanches start within the tree zone; trees, anchor the snow and prevent the avalanche from ever happening. The present paper deals with various aspects of afforestation of avalanche prone sites to minimise avalanche occurrence on a short and long term basis. Both coniferous and Broad leaved species considered suitable for afforestation of avalanche prone sites have been listed. Guiding principles for choice of species, crop geometry, spacing required, crop height and density structures of the forest and other details have been discussed. Pre-requisities for improvement of avalanche prone areas have been given and suggestions future work made.