Why Plant Native Trees?

Native trees play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance and biodiversity of an area. Here are some compelling reasons why planting native trees is essential: 

1. Ecosystem Stability: Native trees are adapted to the local climate, soil, and wildlife, making them better suited to thrive and contribute to ecosystem stability. They provide habitat and food for native wildlife, including birds, insects, and mammals, thus supporting biodiversity.
2. Soil Health: Native trees help improve soil health by preventing erosion, promoting water infiltration, and cycling nutrients. Their root systems stabilize soil, preventing erosion and retaining moisture, which is essential for sustaining plant and microbial life.
3. Climate Resilience: Native trees are more resilient to local climate conditions and extreme weather events, such as droughts and storms. By planting native trees, we can help mitigate the impacts of climate change and increase the resilience of ecosystems.
4. Water Management: Native trees play a crucial role in regulating the water cycle by absorbing and storing water in their roots and canopy. They help reduce the risk of flooding by slowing down water runoff and enhancing groundwater recharge.
5. Cultural Significance: Native trees often hold cultural significance for indigenous communities and local populations. They are an integral part of traditions, ceremonies, and folklore, contributing to the cultural identity of a region.
6. Aesthetic Value: Native trees enhance the beauty and aesthetics of landscapes, providing shade, shelter, and visual interest. They contribute to the overall well-being of communities by creating green spaces for recreation and relaxation.

Benefits of Planting Native Trees:

1. Biodiversity Support: Native trees provide habitat and food for a wide range of native wildlife, including birds, mammals, insects, and pollinators, thus supporting biodiversity and ecological balance.
2. Ecosystem Services: Native trees offer a variety of ecosystem services, such as carbon sequestration, air purification, and soil stabilization, which are essential for maintaining healthy ecosystems and human well-being.
3. Adaptation to Climate Change: Native trees are better adapted to local climate conditions and are more resilient to climate change impacts, such as extreme temperatures, droughts, and floods. By planting native trees, we can help increase ecosystem resilience and mitigate climate change effects.
4. Water Management: Native trees help regulate the water cycle by absorbing and storing water in their roots and canopy, reducing the risk of flooding, erosion, and soil degradation. They also enhance groundwater recharge and improve water quality.
5. Cultural and Aesthetic Value: Native trees hold cultural significance for indigenous communities and local populations, contributing to the cultural identity and heritage of a region. They also enhance the beauty and aesthetics of landscapes, providing shade, shelter, and visual interest.

How?

We will work in partnership with local administration, ie: the village Pradhan, or even local NGOs active in the area to plant native trees and also ensure a system is set up to regularly water them and ensure they do not die in the first few critical years. Ideally a community tree ownership model is the best wherein we empower SHGs (Self-help groups) or other small groups within the village to take care of the trees. We will utilize the funds, to buy and implement the following: