Forest Resources Survey
Forest Inventory, Mapping and GIS Resource Assessments.
Forest Resources Survey Division
The Forest Resources Survey (FRS) Division executes systematic field inventories, biomass estimation, and remote sensing classifications to evaluate growing stock and land-use dynamics across the State's total geographical area of 22,429 sq km.
The primary objective of the Division is the mapping and inventorying of the State's natural resources to aid planning, scientific management, and sustainable exploitation for sustained yield. The generated data analyzes economic growth, environmental health, and guides the formulation of policies conducive to the conservation and management of Meghalaya's forest and land resources.
Core Objectives & Scope
Forest Inventories
Implement systematic sampling inventories to generate robust baseline data on growing stock, regeneration status, and species diversity across all territorial jurisdictions.
Mapping & Demarcation
Execution of precise boundary demarcations and mapping operations for Reserved Forests, Protected Forests, and newly acquired lands using advanced GPS.
Management Plans
Formulation and periodic revision of comprehensive working schemes and management plans critical for the sustainable administration of Community and Private Forests.
Ad-hoc Scientific Studies
Conduct specialized surveys including non-timber forest produce (NTFP) assessments, medicinal plant documentation, and site-specific ecological impact studies.
Geospatial Data Archival
Maintenance and continuous updating of the centralized spatial database, incorporating historical maps and high-resolution satellite imageries.
Key State Forest Inventory Metrics
Total Recorded Forest & Cover Matrix
Encompasses extensive green coverage classified across dense canopies, open formations, and traditional community-managed landscapes.
Canopy Classifications
Evaluates structural distributions spanning Very Dense Forests (VDF), Moderately Dense Forests (MDF), Open Forests (OF), and Scrub lands.
Recorded Forest Areas (RFA)
Integrates spatial monitoring both inside and outside traditional Green Wash (GW) boundaries to track real-time forest cover changes and transition matrices.
Operational Methodologies
To maintain technical precision and scientific rigor, the division implements standardized protocols:
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01
Macro-level Stratification
Broad forest categorization based on canopy density and terrain characteristics.
Deployment of targeted random sample plots across varied terrain slopes, altitudes, and ecological zones.
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02
Grid-based Sampling
Laying out sample plots of 0.1 ha uniformly across forest strata for detailed enumeration.
Comprehensive listing and botanical identification of overstory trees, understory shrubs, herbs, and bamboo species within designated sample boundaries.
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03
Biometric Analysis
Tree height and diameter measurements for volume and biomass equations.
Synchronizing field data collections with modern digital forestry tools, enabling seamless database management, spatial analysis, and policy planning.
Key Achievements & Milestone Projects
Sacred Groves Inventory & Mapping
Recognizing the ecological and cultural significance of Sacred Groves, the Division has undertaken extensive GPS mapping and inventories across districts:
- GPS Mapping: Completed mapping of 154 Sacred Groves located across the East Khasi Hills, Jaintia Hills, Ri Bhoi, South West Khasi Hills, and West Khasi Hills districts.
- Growing Stock Studies: Detailed studies and estimation of growing stock on 20 Sacred Groves were successfully completed, resulting in the publication of the book “Forest Inventory of Sacred Groves of Meghalaya” (Vol-I).
- Fieldwork and Data Collection: Data collection for an additional 15 Sacred Groves have been completed under subsequent phases, with data analysis directed toward publishing Vol-II.
Medicinal & Aromatic Plants Documentation
Conducted a comprehensive study on the medicinal plants of Meghalaya, leading to the landmark publication 'Documentation of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants' in 2002.
Geospatial Database Integration
Leveraging digital tile layers and remote sensing outputs to maintain an up-to-date repository of forest cover dynamics, macro-level management plans, and boundary delineations.