Are forests always a good thing? Understanding the linkages among forests , watersheds & agriculture in the Western Ghats
This study provides an insight on the role of tropical forests in the functioning of watersheds and the affect on agriculture and farmers?. Its findings are of particular importance for policy makers across South Asia, where large populations use forests and water resources intensively.
What is the role of tropical forests in the functioning of watersheds and how does this affect agriculture and farmers? In this SANDEE study,researchers provide new insights into this issue. They find that, for a certain type of irrigation system, an increase in forest cover can actually reduce the amount of water available for agriculture. This can stop farmers
growing irrigated crops and can, in turn, have a negative impact on their livelihoods. Researchers from the Centre for Interdisciplinary Studies in Environment and Development in Bangalore, India, carried out the study. It is one of the first pieces of research of its type in south Asia. It underlines the
often complex relationship between habitat conservation and agriculture, and highlights the need for environmental policy makers to take into account the social and economic impacts of their decisions. Its findings are of particular importance for policy makers across South Asia, where large populations use forests and water resources intensively.