DefinePK

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study was carried out to analyze the folk knowledge of the inhabitants about the Tree species of the area. Twenty tree species belonging to eleven families and nineteen genera viz. Abies pindrow, Acer caesium, Aesculus indica, Betula utilis, Cedrus deodara, Corylus colurna, Crataegus songarica, Ficus carica, Juglans regia, Malus pumila, Morus alba, Picea smithiana, Pinus wallichiana, Populus alba, Punica granatum, Prunus armeniaca, Prunus domestica, Pyrus communis, Quercus baloot, Salix turanica were recorded. Among these 19(95%) were utilized as Timber, 18(90%) Fuel wood, 13(65%) Medicinal, 12(60%) Agro forestry, 12(60%) Agricultural tools, 10(50%) Fodder, 10(50%) Plants yielding fruits, 8(40%) Thatching/sheltering, 8(40%) Fencing, 3(15%) Condiment/spice, 8 (40%) Furniture, 7(35%) Ornamental, 6(30%) honey bee flora, 3(15%) Beverage, 1(5%) Bark used for writing, 1(5%) Bark used for huts/rooms, 1(5%) wool dye. Being a far flung area, the locals totally depend upon the Plant Natural Resources (PNR) for their livelihood. Biotic pressure and unsustainable utilization have caused tremendous loss to the biodiversity of the area. There is a need for the proper management and conservation, for which awareness campaign and alternative income resources should be encouraged for eliminating the poverty, improving the livelihood and ensure the sustainable utilization of the Plant Natural Resources. Keywords: Trees, Livelihood, Gabral valley, Swat Kohistan.