Importance of Forests - Habitat and Food

Forests provide habitat, and food as well as protection to wildlife species against extremes of climate and help in balancing carbon dioxide and oxygen of the atmosphere. Forests enhance local precipitation and improve water holding capacity, of soil, regulate water cycle, maintain soil fertility by returning the nutrients to the soil through litter.

Forests check soil-erosion, landslides and reduce intensity of flood and droughts. Forests, being home of wildlife are important assets of aesthetic, touristic and cultural value to the society.