Downloads: 1
Research Paper | Environmental Science Studies | Volume 15 Issue 7, July 2026 | Pages: 1791 - 1793 | India
Assessment of Soil Health and Ecosystem Functions Under Diverse Forest Types in the Himalayan Region: A Case Study of Shimla District
Abstract: Soil health forms the foundation of forest productivity and ecosystem sustainability by regulating nutrient cycling, carbon sequestration, water retention, and biodiversity. The Himalayan region, particularly Shimla District of Himachal Pradesh, supports diverse forest ecosystems dominated by Deodar (Cedrus deodara), Chir Pine (Pinus roxburghii), Oak (Quercus leucotrichophora), and mixed broadleaf species. These forests differ considerably in litter quality, vegetation structure, microbial activity, and soil physicochemical properties, thereby influencing ecosystem functions. The present study evaluates soil health under major forest types of Shimla District using a review-based analytical approach based on published literature, Forest Survey of India reports, and recent ecological studies. Soil organic carbon, soil pH, available nitrogen, phosphorus, moisture content, microbial biomass, and carbon sequestration potential were considered as major indicators of soil quality. Evidence suggests that oak and mixed broadleaf forests possess higher soil organic carbon, improved nutrient availability, greater microbial activity, and better moisture retention than chir pine forests, whereas deodar forests exhibit intermediate soil characteristics. The findings highlight the ecological significance of conserving native broadleaf forests for maintaining soil fertility, biodiversity, and climate resilience in the north-western Himalaya. The study recommends sustainable forest management and continuous soil monitoring to preserve ecosystem functions under changing climatic conditions.
Keywords: Soil health, Forest ecosystems, Ecosystem functions, Shimla District, Western Himalaya
How to Cite?: Dr. Dhruv Sagar, "Assessment of Soil Health and Ecosystem Functions Under Diverse Forest Types in the Himalayan Region: A Case Study of Shimla District", Volume 15 Issue 7, July 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1791-1793, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26719122759, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26719122759