Srinagar :The Division of Silviculture & Agroforestry, Faculty of Forestry, Benhama Ganderbal, SKUAST-Kashmir, is leading a pioneering conservation effort to revive Alnus nitida—the Western Himalayan Alder—locally known as Champ. The species was first introduced to the Kashmir Valley by an English silviculturist in the early 20th century.
According to available information and oral accounts from elders in New Theed, Harwan, six trees were initially planted. Today, only two of those original trees survive. Decades of deforestation, urbanization, and natural hazards have drastically reduced the presence of the species, but the surviving trees in Harwan symbolize resilience and now serve as the foundation for its revival.
Ecologists recognize Alnus nitida as a pioneer species that colonizes disturbed lands and prepares them for the growth of other plants. Its nitrogen-fixing roots contain Frankia, which enriches poor soils, making it vital for restoring degraded landscapes and supporting sustainable agroforestry. The tree also has the ability to absorb heavy metals such as lead, zinc, cadmium, and copper, offering a natural solution for pollution control in urban and industrial zones. In addition, studies highlight its medicinal value, citing strong anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties, while its timber and bark support local crafts, construction, and dyeing.
The initiative to revive the species is being led by research scholar Qamr-ul Naseer along with a team of scientists headed by Dr. Nazir A. Pala, Associate Professor, Division of SAF; Dr. G. M. Bhat, Professor & Head, Division of SAF; and Dr. Maqbool Rather, Scientist, Division of FBT, Faculty of Forestry, SKUAST-K. Their innovative work in propagating Alnus nitida through seeds and cuttings using advanced silvicultural techniques has proven instrumental. At present, 300 saplings of the species are ready for transplantation, marking a significant step toward restoring its population in the valley.
Dean, Faculty of Forestry, Prof. A. H. Mughal, who has been actively supporting the initiative, has instructed scientists to introduce the species across the valley. Thriving in temperate climates along riverbanks and moist soils, the Western Himalayan Alder can grow up to 30 meters tall, with glossy green leaves and furrowed bark. The project, initially focused on propagation and production of quality planting material, now emphasizes public engagement through awareness campaigns, plantation drives, and collaborations with schools, environmental groups, and the J&K Social Forestry Department. To enhance outreach, a QR code containing information about the species has been designed and developed by scholar Qamr-ul-Naseer and lead scientist Dr. Nazir A. Pala.
By reviving the legacy of the English silviculturist’s introduction, the initiative positions Alnus nitida as part of Kashmir’s cultural and natural heritage.
Although the species is currently listed as “Least Concern” on the IUCN Red List, the decline in Harwan highlights looming threats from deforestation and urban sprawl. To counter these challenges, SKUAST-K’s Faculty of Forestry is exploring partnerships to integrate Alnus nitida into large-scale reforestation and agroforestry projects across the region.
For Kashmir, where ecological restoration and cultural preservation are deeply connected, reviving the Western Himalayan Alder is more than conservation—it is an effort to root resilience back into the valley’s landscape.
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