Forest protection involves various strategies and practices aimed at preserving forests from natural threats and human activities. It ensures the safety of plantations, biodiversity, and forest resources, which are vital for environmental balance and human survival. The main threats to forests include wildfires, pests and diseases, illegal logging, and encroachment.
Wildfires are one of the biggest dangers to forest areas, especially during dry seasons. To prevent fires, forest departments create firebreaks—clear strips that stop fire from spreading. Controlled or prescribed burning is sometimes done to safely clear dry leaves and undergrowth. Watchtowers, fire patrols, and early warning systems using satellite monitoring or drones are also used. Educating local communities about fire safety and setting up quick-response fire teams helps in fast action during emergencies.
Pests like caterpillars, beetles, and borers can destroy large areas of plantations if not managed in time. Diseases caused by fungi or bacteria can also weaken or kill trees. Regular monitoring, proper spacing between plants, and using pest-resistant varieties are basic preventive steps. In case of infestation, eco-friendly pesticides or biological controls like introducing predator insects are used. Good nursery hygiene and proper pruning also reduce the chances of infection.
Illegal logging leads to the loss of valuable trees and harms the forest ecosystem. To stop this, forest guards are deployed for patrolling sensitive zones. Checkposts and satellite surveillance are used to track unauthorized tree cutting. Forest areas may also be geotagged for better monitoring. Involving local communities through joint forest management (JFM) programs increases awareness and local protection efforts. Strict laws and penalties act as a deterrent for illegal loggers.
Fencing or trenching is done to prevent grazing or encroachment by humans and animals. Signboards, forest boundary markings, and regular inspections help ensure that forest land is not misused. Afforestation and reforestation also play a role in restoring damaged areas, strengthening overall forest health.