Assessment of natural population and regeneration dynamics of Pinus gerardiana in dry temperate region of north western Himalaya

Chilgoza pine (Pinus gerardiana Wall. ex D. Don) is one of the multipurpose, endemic and near-threatened species of Himalayan region. The population of Chilgoza pine is decreasing rapidly due to over exploitation and habitat degradation. Chilgoza pine serves for its edible pine nuts, seeds are locally known as Miri, Chilgoza and Neoja is most important cash crops of tribal people residing in Luj and Dharwas villages of Pangi valley and seed are very expensive, sold at approximately 2500-4500 rupees per kilogram. Due to over exploitation and habitat degradation, natural regeneration of the species is very poor in the area. Keeping in view of the ecological and economical importance of the species for the tribal community, the population ecology and regeneration pattern were documented in Pangi Valley, Chamba District of Himachal Pradesh located in north western Himalaya. Therefore, regular monitoring of the populations of Pinus gerardiana for understanding the population dynamics is required. Afforestation in specific habitat, mass multiplication following conventional propagation methods and educational and awareness programmes for the conservation have been suggested.