Trees Outside Forests in Tamil Nadu, India – An Overview

The tree resource outside the forest (TOF) is a highly diverse and locally different natural renewable resource. In many regions they play a prominent role in securing rural livelihoods viz., provision of small timber, firewood, fodder, fruits, medicinal value, etc. Agroforestry systems are multifunctional systems that can provide a wide range of economic, socio cultural and environmental benefits. Agroforestry can be particularly important for smallholder farmers because it generates diverse products and services on a limited land area. Agroforestry practices in Tamil Nadu (TN), India, have existed since time immemorial and are evidenced in all parts of the state with less or no scientific management. Agroforestry research is a new field that is getting momentum in recent times due to popularization of industrial agroforestry. In the present context, to meet the national target of forest cover (33%) and to reduce pressure on natural forests, agroforestry plays a vital role and provides additional income to the farming community. This article aims to provide an insight into agroforestry practices in TN, including reasons for opting them, problems faced, etc. It also provides information on agroclimatic zone-wise tree species and agroforestry systems being practised by farmers.