M. A. Waheed Khan

Abstract

No abstract

Full Text

     

M. A. Waheed Khan

Abstract

No abstract

Full Text

     

M. A. Waheed Khan

Abstract

No abstract

Full Text

     

M. A. Waheed Khan

Abstract

No abstract

Full Text

     

M. A. Waheed Khan

Abstract

Necessity for detailed phytosociologicai studies is stressed to build up a classification of Indian Vegetation on a more sound basis. As these studies are made only in representative areas of limited extent, selection of a suitable sampling unit is imperative. Factors influencing the shape, size and number of sampling units are discussed, and the latest methods of vegetational surveys, designed for Indian conditions, are reviewed. A typical study of this nature was made in the sal forests of Madhya Pradesh, and accordingly improvements are suggested over the existing practices.

Full Text

     

S. K. Seth , M. A. Waheed Khan

Abstract

Dehra Dun Valley sal forests, conforming to Champion's B-3 High Level Alluvium. Type, characteristically reproduce freely but sometimes the reproduction is deficient, particularly in areas which are rigidly fire-protected. The long history of forest management and protection has led to conditions under which large tracts of these forests are not reproducing adequately. The existing conditions have,' therefore, been investigated with regard to seed-source, seed bed conditions, climate, light, moisture, nutrient requirements and the ameliorative effects of fire. In particular an analysis of the soil moisture regime has been made and correlated with the various developmental stagts of sal seedlings. Suggestions have also been made with regard to adoption of suitable forestry practices to achieve regeneration de novo and to promote the timely establishment of sal seedlings. It is concluded that if the manipulation of sal forests is carried out in a manner conforming to the climato-ecological requirements of sal seedlings, a regeneration period of 15 to 30 years should suffice to restock the area with established sal regeneration.

Full Text

     

M. A. Waheed Khan , A. C. Gupta

Abstract

A phytosociological study of sal (Shorea robusta) regeneration was made in B. 3-High Level Alluvium sal forests of the Dehra Dun valley. The occurrence and condition of sal regeneration was precisely determined with regard to forest stratification and spatial distribution of species. The ecological methods adopted were modified belt transects with thorough cartography of vegetation, involving accurate charting and profile representation. Both favourable and unfavourable communities with regard to sal regeneration have been distinguished and the role of competition is stressed. Favourable associates apparently do not compete with sal seedlings for light, moisture and nutrients, and may. on the contrary produce a congenial and cool atmosphere for rapid growth. This study, therefore, is suggestive of the fact that in practice it is advisable to deal drastically with the unfavourable type of shrubby growth and ground flora, along with adequate canopy manipulation, for obtaining and establishing sal regeneration.

Full Text

     

M. A. Waheed Khan

Abstract

Bilaspur forest division in Madhya Pradesh is well-known for its vast stretches of good quality bamboo (Dendrocalamus strictus) forests. Their distributional patterns as correlated with climate, geology, soil, physiography etc. are discussed. Also details of associated tree vegetation are furnished. To determine the productive potentiality of these bamboo forests, a multi-stage sampling technique was adopted and growth features were assessed in detail. The computed results are appropriately tabulated.

Full Text

     

M. A. Waheed Khan , J. S. P. Yadav , A. C. Gupta

Abstract

Fir (Abies pindrow) and spruce (Picea morinda) forests at Deoban suffered abnormal mortality, following the heavy fellings done during 1941 to 1950. The cause of this mortality has been assessed from various angles and it has been concluded that as fir and spruce preferentially require a cool and moist habitat and though can withstand a tolerable amount of shade in early stages are still susceptible to permanent stagnation. Sudden exposure by way of inordinately heavy fellings of a long over-stocked forest may cause death of trees with indiscrimination. The physical and biological balances being upset, the adverse effects are all the more pronounced due to superficial, non-massive ischolar_main systems of these species, and the abnormal reduction in crown length, either due to continued overcongestion or the deterioration set in by sudden excessive exposure. In the Indian forestry literature, this is the first record of mortality caused due to upsetting the physical and biological balances through heavy fellings.

Full Text

     

S. K. Seth , J. S. P. Yadav , M. A. Waheed Khan

Abstract

No abstract

Full Text

     

S. Rajkhowa , M. A. Waheed Khan

Abstract

A substantial increase in the annual yield of resin from young Pinus roxburghii can be obtained by using short tapping cycles. The response to shorter cycles is very little in the first month of tapping, but increases rapidly as the summer advances. Again, by August, the response drops off suddenly. This suggests a varying frequency of tapping at different months of the year. A tentative scheme of tapping suggested has the advantage that tapping is done only during four months of the year, giving the tree rest for 8 months in each year, and yet producing nearly double the yield obtained under the conventional method. With short tapping cycles, it is also possible to reorganise the field work so that the tapping cost does not increase.

Full Text

     

M. A. Waheed Khan

Abstract

Though a tentative classification of the forest types of India is available, characteristic features of each type, particularly with regard to composition, structure, distribution, dynamics, environmental requirements, etc. are far from complete. Suggestions are made for the cooperation of State Forest Departments to called this vital information as early as possible. The method of studying forest types is detailed. Emphasis is laid on tbe study of forest types in a broad way, constituent plant communities, locality factors, vegetation dynamics and hydrological properties. It is also suggested to lay out a series of preservation plots in all the forest types of a State. It is necessary to study them periodically to assess the changes occurring with regard to composition, structure and regeneration status. Induced changes brought about due to various management practices must also be assessed and defined for the sake of reproducibility.

Full Text

     

S. Rajkhowa , M. A. Waheed Khan

Abstract

Tapping resin from Pinus roxburghii using a 25cm. (10") wide bark freshened blaze, sprayed with sulphuric acid, yielded about the same as could be expected from two standard Indian blazes put on the same tree. Using standard Indian 10 cm. (4") wide blazes, it was found that spraying sulphuric acid did not result in any increased yield. Spraying a 25% solution of hydrochloric acid on wood chipped blaze along with a 7 day freshening period increased the resin flow by about 18%, but the application of the acid did not permit of using a bark chipped blaze, or of a longer cycle, to yield resin at least equal to the standard tapping.

Full Text

     

M. A. Waheed Khan , J. S. P. Yadav

Abstract

Owing to the rapid spread and immense loss of State revenue, the spike disease of sandal has received considerable attention in recent years. The various conflicting views of the different workers about the cause of this disease and the remedial measures adopted 80 far to control it have been summarised in brief. Inspite of much work done on the subject the problem still remains baffling in the country. It has been shown that our present knowledge of soils in relation to the occurrence of this disease is extremely meagre. An investigation was, therefore, undertaken in Salem North division of Madras State to examine the soils having a bearing on this problem. The analytical data of 16 soil profiles representing both healthy and spiked sandal trees have been reported and discussed in detail. In general, the soils are coarse in texture, neutral in reaction and somewhat low in the nutrient status. A critical comparison of the data showing the two types of health condition, however, reveal a positive correlation of the soil properties with the incidence of the malady. Majority of the soils under spiked condition are calcareous and contain lower quantities of available nutrients especially phosphorus, whereas those carrying healthy growth are all non-calcareous and have relatively higher nutrient availability. The results obtained suggest a wide scope for future research to draw conclusions of greater practical value.

Full Text

     

M. A. Waheed Khan

Abstract

In view of their vast expanse, the saline-alkali soils are perhaps the most problematic of the waste lands in the country, The various factors responsible for their formation and infertility have been elucidated, Analytical data on the physico-chemical characteristics of the more important soil profiles examined in the semi-arid and arid tracts of the various States have been reported which reveal that these soils differ widely from place to place and carry different natural flora. It has been suggested that these soils offer one of the best possibilities for extending the area under forests. A brief account has been given of the measures required for the reclamation of different types of saline-alkali soils. For a permanent amelioration of alkali soils it is, however, necessary to replace exchangeable sodium with calcium ions. Since reclamation of alkali soils is a costly operation, attention is focussed on growing appropriate alkali resistant species and using suitable planting techniques, the choice of which will vary accordingly to the nature and intensity of salinity and alkali. A comprehensive review has been presented of the field experiments conducted so far and the results obtained on afforestation of these lands employing different species and planting techniques. The different methods of soli working under various planting practices have been explained in brief. In conclusion, an urgent necessity for well-planned field and laboratory investigations including soli analysis to evolve sound techniques and to select exacting species for afforestation of saline-alkali soils has been suggested.

Full Text

     

M. A. Waheed Khan , J. S. P. Yadav

Abstract

In view of the vast areas under forests, which constitute most vital asset of the country, it is essential to have a systematised knowledge of their soils through surveys. The data thus obtained will be of immense value in proper forest management, in land-use planning and in maximum production on a sustained basis. It bas been shown that on account of significant differences in the soil requirements the techniques of soil survey and classification for forestry purposes differ in many respects from those usually adopted for agriculture. Three broad types of soil surveys, namely, (1) Reconnaissance, (2) Detailed reconnaissance and (3) Detailed, have been mentioned. The techniques and procedure of soil survey to be used for forest areas have been described in detail. The prominent systems of soil classification in vogue have been elucidated. A brief account has been given of the methods of soil surveys being followed in some European countries and of the more important developments that have taken place in soil survey and classification, particularly of agricultural lands in India. Since our present knowledge about forest soils is very poor, it is suggested that concerted efforts should be made in this aspect of soil research. It is hoped that with the establishment of several regional research centres and State laboratories and with the strengthening of technical staff at Forest Research Institute, a good headway will be made in this direction and some tangible results of practical value will be achieved.

Full Text

     

M. A. Waheed Khan

Abstract

No abstract

Full Text

     

M. A. Waheed Khan

Abstract

In an intensively managed bamboo forest, it is necessary to know the age of individual culms, say upto 4 years, for judicious selection fellings. Culm age can be determined by studying differential morphological characters relating to culm-sheath, branches and culm itself. Though, these characters may vary to some extent according to the climatic features of a locality and the developmental stage of the clump itself, fair generalisations may, however, be made for any individual locality and accordingly an attempt has been made to evolve such distinguishing characters for 14 different species of bamboos, both indigenous and exotic, as are growing in the Forest Research Institute, Dehru Dun. Photographic illustrations are also provided.

Full Text

     

M. A. Waheed Khan

Abstract

Black Wattle was introduced in Madras State, as early as 1843. Due to high quality of tannin which it produces, extensive plantations have been raised during the recent past. The knowledge, so far gained in the silviculture and management of this species, has been summarised. Recent advances with regard to silviculture, management and research of Black Wattle are reviewed, mainly to reorient the current practices for deriving maximum advantage. The salient features of this advancement are: (1) The correct botanical nomenclature of Black Wattle is Acacia mearnsii de Willd. (Syn. Acacia mollissima Willd.). (2) The maximum production of wood and tannin-containing bark varies with the degree of stocking for each site and age class and for the purposes of efficient management practices it is desirable to define this variability, experimentally and thoroughly. (3) Damaging frost effects of Black Wattle seedlings may be avoided by clear weeding around them and maintaining the soil surface undisturbed. A frost shelterwood of about 100 large-crowned dominant trees per acre is e ffective for natural regeneration. The shelterwood trees should be stripped of bark to kill them. (4) Fertilization requirement is mainly for superphosphate (2 cwt./ac.) and secondarily for lime (5 tons/ac.) and potash (I cwt./ac.) according to the soil properties. Role of trace elements appears to be eminent. (5) Tannin contents in bark vary with age and season. Non-tannin contents are influenced by rainfall and thus age effect is obscured. (6) In conducting research on Black Wattle, it is necessary to observe that: (a) Plot is never less than four trees in width. (b) A plot size of about one tenth acre is advisable. (c) Blocks of plots are square or compactly rectangular. (d) Lattice design is most efficient even with relatively few treatments. (e) Young trees are less variable than mature ones. Research results should, therefore, be assessed at 3 years of age. (f) For fertilization experiments only field trials are useful.

Full Text

     

K. P. Sagreiya , M. A. Waheed Khan

Abstract

C.S.I.R.O., Australia has recently reviewed the world literature on Eucalyptus as a pulping material. In all, so far 23 species have proved useful for the production of paper and rayon pulp. Introduction and extension of these Eucalyptus species in the plantation forestry of the country are discussed. Hints are also given for the correct site selection for the individual species of Eucalyptus and the expected wood yields. It transpires that Eucalypts for pulping should be grown on short rotation (say 10 to 20 years), and fast growth be induced by irrigation and application of manures.

Full Text

     

S. K. Seth , M. A. Waheed Khan , L. S. P. Yadav

Abstract

Wide-spread sal (Shorea robusta) mortality occurred in the Forest Divisions of Daltongunj, Latehar and Ko1han in Bihar in 1951 onwards. Drought was suspected to be the main cause of this calamity and accordingly a study of climate was undertaken and monthly fluctuations of soil moisture in the entire profiles of 6 ft. depth at three locations were computed for the period from 1941 to 1955. These values of soil moisture were grouped into five categories and taking into consideration the periods during which each of these moisture conditions prevailed in the ischolar_main zones 'drought values' and 'drought severity values' were determined as percentage departures from the normal conditions of duration and moisture status. These values were integrated to arrive at 'drought mortality values' and the effect of successive drought years was assessed as 'cumulative drought mortality values' (C.D.M.V.). The observed pattern of mortality was correlated with these values. The close correlation between the cumulative drought mortality values and the actual pattern of mortality at Daltongunj proves that drought is the main cause of mortality. Management of such drought-affected sal forests is also suggested.

Full Text

     

M. A. Waheed Khan

Abstract

No abstract

Full Text

     

S. K. Seth , M. A. Waheed Khan

Abstract

The study of climate and climatic homologues is an essential prerequisite in any scheme of plant introduction. This is particularly so for afforestation practices in the dry zone. The broad principles relating to influence of climate on the distribution of plants are reviewed and Emberger's climatic index is worked out for the dry zone of India in order to delimit climatic sub-types. It is, however, felt that the sub-types so formed do not harmonise with the natural vegetation types of the area. The concept of "Effective Temperature Index" is therefore developed which sufficiently modifies Emberger's formula to bring it in consonance with the natural vegetation types. Instead of plotting Q, the bioc1imatic value (200P/M²-m²) against m(av. min. temp. of the coldest month), it is plotted against m( M-m) where M is the av. max. temp. of the hottest month.

Full Text

     

M. A. Waheed Khan

Abstract

Climate of the tropical dry zone creates environments which are not quite congenial for continued and accelerated growth DC plantation crops, particularly where such crops are dependent on annual precipitation. For the economic and industrial plantations, it is necessary that crops grow fast and produce the maximum utilizable wood volume per unit area and within the shortest possible period. The annual variability in rainfall conditions of the tropical dry zone is examplified with the climatic data of Nepanagar (M.P.). In order that the industrial plantations may prove an economic success, the first requirement is of a choice of a species. In this regard, merits of "Mysore Gum" are reviewed. Botanically, this species is said to be Eucalyptus tertticornis, yet in Nepanagar area the performance of pure E. tereticornis is not so plausible as that of "Mysore Gum".Appraisal of site factors is imperative to discover soil moisture build-up. A scheme to this effect is evolved, taking into consideration the soil type, topography and methods of soil working and planting. Inter-actions amongst these variables have been worked out as modifying factors for the actual annual precipitation. A simple procedure for the analysis of rainfall data is worked out to calculate the effective rainfall build-up from day to day. For most of the forest areas, calculations of this nature are possible, as rainfall records are usually available. For specific plantation centres, rain-gauges may also be installed for recording daily precipitation for a period of four months only, i.e., from lst June to 30th September each year.Instructions for running records of rainfall analysis are incorporated and the procedure for correlating soil moisture build-up with such forestry operations as date of planting, weeding, hoeing, mulching, application of chemicals as weedicides, termite repellents and killers, insecticides, fertilisers, etc., is given. Criteria are also laid down for judging the performance of plantations in anyone year. The use of rainfall analyses and soil moisture build-up in predicting suitability of different localities for plantation forestry is indicated.

Full Text

     

M. A. Waheed Khan

Abstract

Measurements of tree crown are not only important in assessing the growth dynamics and potentials and to carry out silvicultural manipulations, but also for determining precisely the gaps in canopy which influence the occurrence and frequency of regeneration, pests, wildlife, etc. However, accurate measuring and mapping of crowns have proved difficult with the known crown-meters. A summary review of the literature is included. Requirements of an efficient type of crown-meter have been brought out and based on these considerations, construction and use of a "Pun-Chun Crown-Meter" have been described. It is a see-through plumb-bob type. A prototype instrument was also constructed, and the experience gained in the use of this instrument confirms that the Pun-Chun Crow-Meter bears the following merits: (1) It is cheap and can be constructed almost at no cost. (2) It is simple in construction and can easily and quickly be prepared by anyone. (3) It is simple to operate and can be entrusted to even the lower category of staff for taking precise measurements. (4) It can be used with equal efficiency both for isolated trees and those standing in a close-canopied forest. (5) It is light and handy to use. (6) It measures the crown radii most precisely. (7) It can be used with utmost speed, without impairing accuracy and causing undue fatigue. (8) Measurements taken in the field can conveniently be plotted in office to draw crown maps.

Full Text

     

M. A. Waheed Khan

Abstract

Plot charting is a necessary ingredient of many silvicultaral and ecological studies. Presently, the procedures standardised for such a charting are triangulation and optical square methods. Merits and limitations of these methods are listed and on the whole they are not only cumbersome to follow, but are also apt to include gross inaccuracies. A new method of plot charting is now proposed. It consists in the use of two measuring tapes for recording two coordinates of each tree position, with reference to a base line. This method has been extensively tried in the field and found to he extremely simple, fast, accurate and easy. It suits to all conditions of plot terrain and stocking per unit area.

Full Text

     

M. A. Waheed Khan

Abstract

Bamboo plantations are being raised increasingly. In this context, Bambusa vulgaris is of prime importance, as it is thorn-less, capable of high productivity and could be relled on culmcuttings for raising plantations. On the basis of experimental evidence, the technique of raising B. vulgaris plantations through culm-cuttings is described. Two-noded cuttings are made from middle one-thirds of the culm, and three-noded cuttings from the rest of the culm. On the onset of the rains, they are planted at 45 cm × 45 cm spacement in nursery beds with heavy soil and flood irrigated at fortnightly intervals. By the middle of the following rainy season, they are well-established and fairly grown for planting out. They are planted out at 12 m × 12 m spacement. Choice of climatic and soil regions is indicated and role of irrigation in such plantations is emphasized.

Full Text