Western Ghats Forum (WGF)

ghat3The Western Ghats are amongst the world’s biodiversity Hotspots. The various human-induced threats to the rich biodiversity and the large number of endemic species have been identified and highlighted by the recently completed National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan; Western Ghats Ecoregion. Of the various gaps identified, the need to have an “Advisory Body” that would guide research and policy in the Western Ghats emerged as the most compelling one. As a follow-up to this process, several institutions that are committed to conservation of natural resources and human welfare in the Western Ghats have come together to create a ‘Western Ghats Forum’.

This forum is the fruit of an unprecedented multi-agency collaboration with a vision to bri.... [continue]



 Growing, Planting, and Caring for Your Own Picture Perfect Avocado Tree

avocado

Tips for planting seeds and growing your own avocado tree: Keep in mind that the next time you eat an avocado fruit or use it in a recipe, to save the seed. Planting your own avocado tree can be a gratifying and fun experience. Here are a few steps to keep in mind while planting your seeds:

  • Hold the avocado seed so that the pointed side faces upwards and insert four toothpicks in the middle of the seed. These have to be inserted at equal intervals at a depth of about 5 mm.
  • Fill a glass container with water and suspend the avocado seed in it so that the full width of the seed fits into the container.
  • Keep this container in a temperate place, preferably near a window or any well-lit place, so that the growi.... [continue]



 Modern Biology Textbooks by Holt Rinehart and Winston

biologyModern biology unites all the fields of the subject under one theoretical umbrella. Evolution forms the basis of modern biology. Textbooks on Modern Biology by Holt, Rinehart and Winston continues to set the standard for its field. It includes a unique and carefully balanced combination of both classic and contemporary information, which has been the trademark of this textbook throughout its eighty years of history. Modern Biology textbooks by Holt, Rinehart and Winston has a new edition that includes traditional, time-tested topics with up-dated scientific thoughts, as well as laboratory programs using the latest multimedia tools. It is one of the most preferred choices for a comprehensive, modern approach to biology instructions. This textbook has been in t.... [continue]



 How to plant a Banana tree

Planting a Banana tree is Easy! Follow this simple guide on how to plant and care for banana trees. Watch this video….



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 II Conference of the Western Ghats Forum – ‘Integrating Science and Management of Biodiversity in the Western Ghats’, December 1 & 2, 2005

The Second Conference of the Western Ghats Forum is scheduled for December 1 & 2, 2005. The Conference will be hosted by the Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (SACON) and the venue will be the State Forest Service College, Coimbatore 641 002.

The title of the Conference is ‘Integrating Science and Management of Biodiversity in the Western Ghats’. The Conference has been structured to include 7 symposia viz, Pollination Services, Invertebrates and Conservation Management, Water and Forests, Policy Imperatives for the Western Ghats, Species recovery and Restoration, Conservation and Livelihoods, Conservation and Education and Forest Management.

Papers are hereby invited for the Conference. One-page abstracts may be sent to the Director SACON electronically, clearly indicating the relevant symposium not later than October 21, 2005. The registration fee for participation/paper presentation i.... [continue]



 Maintenance of Azalea Bush with proper pruning

azaleaCare for Azalea bush: Azalea bush are the deciduous plants that belong to the Rhododendron family. With proper care and regular feeding the bush can be grown to reward you with copious flowers each spring. Few basic caring tips such as the location, type of soil or fertilizer can enhance the beauty of your Azalea bush. The most important point to maintain the healthy growth of Azalea bush is choosing the right location. Azalea Bush loves acidic soil and grows best in light shade. Northern locations are best for these bushes. The place should receive some morning sun. But the bush needs protection from midday sun and winter sun. Azalea bush can be killed by sustained winds. Select a shady location and can think of planting shade trees like Read oak around them for a healthy growt.... [continue]



 I Conference, September 22-24, 2003

Summary of the
Proceedings of the first National Conference of the Western Ghats Forum

The first National Conference of the Western Ghats Forum (WGF) was held in September (23-25) 2003 at the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS) in Bangalore. Over 100 scientists, foresters, amateur naturalists and environmental activists took part in the three-day conference. Dr S N Rai, PCCF Karnataka, inaugurated the conference. The theme of the conference was addressed effectively through 3 sub-themes viz.

  • Ecosystems, communities and species (Chair Dr S Balaji IFS)
  • Land use, people, economics and trade (Chair Dr P S Ramakrishnan)
  • Policies, law, awareness and communication (Chair Dr V Ramakantha IFS)

Further, through 8 Round Table discussions the following specific issues were reviewed.