Mapping of tree species and assessment of area under agroforestry systems in Karnataka, India

Abstract

In present study, agroforestry area was estimated through geospatial techniques, and carbon sequestration potential (CSP) was also assessed in six districts of Karnataka state. For mapping agroforestry, medium resolution (LISS-III) remote sensing data was used and sub-pixel method of classification was applied. Estimated area under agroforestry ranged from 3.0% in Bellary district to 22.05% in Tumkur district, where tree density varied from 2.38 to 33.0 trees ha-1. Besides, two major species, namely coconut (Cocus nucifera) and supari (Areca catechu) were also mapped and area under them was estimated. The area under coconut plantation was 36893.49 ha (3.48%) and area under supari plantation was 18192.90 ha (1.72%). Total agroforestry area was estimated to be 0.47 million ha (9.21%) and CSP in all six districts estimated to be 0.11 million t C. Considering an average of 9.21% area in the state as agroforestry, projected area under agroforestry would be 1.768 million ha and state level CSP under agroforestry systems would be 0.371 Mt C in Karnataka. The study revealed that the agroforestry has considerable area in Karnataka state and playing a crucial role in mitigation of atmospheric CO at state level.