Trees for Rural Communities™

About the Project

Like most villages in other parts of India, agriculture is the principal occupation of the communities in Yavatmal, Maharashtra. Increase in temperature, changes in rainfall patterns, and extreme weather events have significantly altered agricultural output. Crop failures have resulted from significant water scarcity, which has affected villagers who depend on agriculture for their livelihoods. Since wells, ponds, and rivers that once provided water for drinking, cooking, and other necessities have dried up, communities now have to travel a great distance to get their hands on it. Scarcity of fodder due to reduced vegetation has further exacerbated the challenges faced by livestock farmers. Villagers who have lost their agricultural livelihoods often have to leave their homes and communities behind, adding to the already significant population pressure in urban areas.

To find solutions to the main problems of climate change and support the villagers with livelihood opportunities, we have introduced the project ‘Trees for Farmers®’. Planting local tree species will contribute to preserving the area's biodiversity, which will improve the ecosystem and add to the village's aesthetic appeal. The produce of the plantation can also be sold by the villagers as a secondary source of income. 

Why Trees for this Project?

• An article by The World Bank highlights the significance of forests to local communities- ”For centuries, forests have served as a kind of natural safety net for communities during times of famine or other events that impact agricultural and food production; they provide fruits, leaves, gum, nuts, timber, and wood for fuel. Forests feed people and the animals they might depend on for trade or meals when crops fail.”

• An article by National Wildlife Federation states that “Trees can enhance a community’s sense of pride, and ownership. Active involvement in tree planting programs leads to a stronger sense of community and the promotion of environmental responsibility and ethics. Planting programs also project a visible sign of change and provide the impetus for other community renewal and action programs. “

Tree Species

Our approach to tree planting involves selecting species that are perfectly suited to the local environment of our planting sites, thereby creating a thriving ecosystem that can flourish and sustain itself. 

In this project, we have planted Pongame (Pongamia pinnata), Kashid (Cassia siamea), Sheesham (Dalbergia sissoo), Teak (Tectona grandis), and Custard Apple (Annona squamosa).
Pongamia oil, which can be sold as a valuable commodity, is extracted from the seeds of the plant. Sheesham and Teak trees are planted so that the people might profit from the sale of their highly sought-after timber. Custard apples are very popular due to their delicious taste and nutritious content. 

Making a Difference - The Impact of Your Support 

Planting of trees offers numerous benefits that span across multiple aspects.*

Generating Employment
Our project generates employment opportunities for the villagers since we are committed to working closely with them at our planting sites. They are involved in preparing the saplings in the nursery, transportation of the saplings, plantation and maintenance. 
The local communities can also earn additional income from the plantation produce, in this case, they can supplement their income from timber and fruits once the tree matures. 

Employment for Women
Many women workers plant trees for our projects. Inclusivity is a key commitment of our tree plantation projects. 

Fodder for Livestock
Livestock is a major source of sustenance for the local community. Trees will provide ample fodder to meet the needs of their livestock.

Recharge Groundwater
By planting trees, we can help regulate the natural water cycle and improve water quality. This will benefit both the local population and the elephants.
Groundwater recharge happens when water from rainfall and other sources soaks into the ground and refills underground water sources. This is important in making sure we have enough water for drinking, agriculture and other uses. 

Improve Soil Quality
Trees help to reduce soil erosion and improve the overall soil quality. This helps increase the agricultural productivity of the local farmers. 

Carbon sequestration
Trees do an excellent job absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. A mature tree can absorb up to 20 kg of CO2 each year. Trees keep the temperature cool and reduce atmospheric stressors. 

*The environmental benefits of the trees reach their full potential as they mature.

Adoption Summary