Abstract

The rate of forest denudation in Trichur Forest Division was estimated for the period between the years 1930 and 1984. About 23 of the forests were cleared for various purposes during the 30 year period between 1930 and 1960. During the period 1960 to 1984, the rate almost doubled (50) . The denudation rate was also estimated separately for Wadakkancherry-Machad and Pattikad-Peechi Ranges of the Division, and the various tendencies were analysed. Formation of grasslands and open lands due to break of continuity and failure of plantations are pronounced tendencies observed. In addition, it was estimated that there is a 15 reduction in the forest cover, due to biotic influences along the forest margins. The actual forest area in 1984 is estimated as about 130 square kilometer, in sharp contrast to the 300 square kilometer in 1960 and 392 square kilometer in 1930