Oak (Quercus Floribunda): A Prominent Indigenous Multipurpose Tree for Carbon Storage and Sequestration Potential

A dynamic growth model (CO2FIX) has been used for estimating the carbon sequestration potential of Oak (Quercus floribunda), an indigenous multipurpose tree used for timber, fuel wood, fiber and specially fodder in addition to its ability of soil binder. The present study has been carried out in the campus of V.C.S.G. College of Horticulture, U.U.H.F., Bharsar, Pauri Garhwal, Uttarakhand. It is capable of thriving on snow and heavy rainfall condition. CO2FIX was parameterized for a simulation of 100 years respectively. The results indicate that the long term tree biomass accumulated was 120.11 t/ha in above ground and 79.89 t/ha in below ground (Soil Carbon) component respectively at the end of simulation period assuming a tree density of 825t/ha (approximately). The net annual carbon sequestration for Oak over the entire simulation period was 1.9 Mg C ha-1 yr -1 (t/ha/yr). Useful for scientific planning and effective implementation of Forestry and Agroforestry developmental programmes at district level as well as at State level for the development of country. For future research work following are few suggestions for better planning and development of State. This type of study can be taken including other parameters/resources such as different trees, different area, and different state and different country as well.