By Vandana Kannan, Biodiversity Conservation
Uginiyam, a forest settlement in Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve, is one of the restoration sites under the REDAA project. We are currently targeting the invasive Senna spectabilis tree and experimenting methods of effective restoration, such as debarking and planting of native species. This is done with active involvement of key stakeholders in the landscape, especially the local communities in Uginiyam.
On 13th and 14th May 2025, invasive removal was conducted within Uginiyam village boundaries by 63 villagers, out of which 70% (n=44) were women. The debarking method was used on Senna spectabilis trees on the village-forest boundary, roadsides, school, streams and on some agriculture lands. 600+ Senna trees were debarked in 13.8 acres.
These trees will be regularly monitored for copious growth and impact of debarking. The shoots will be removed every 15 days. Once the monsoon season starts, the trunks will be uprooted, and native tree species will be planted.
