Salix tetrasperma is commonly called as Indian Willow. In terai zone of West Bengal Salix tetrasperma is seen growing in middle of the pond of many households. During winters when the ponds are dry, the light textured soil does not retain water for long time; the tree bears lush green foliage. On contrary during rainy season when the ponds are filled with water, it sheds its leaves. This may be attributed to soil aeration.

Soil fertility status of hilly microwater watershed in Shivalik hills, was assessed in relation to three locality factors, viz. altitude, slope and aspect. It was found that at higher altitude (440-450 m) of watershed, the soil fertility parameters were less and more in lower altitude (420-430m).

Global warming is inevitable. Therefore, the need is to develop strategies to reduce the greenhouse gases from the atmosphere. Carbon sequestration through biomass seems to be a cheap and viable option. There are several land-use options which can sequester carbon. Their potential of locking carbon differs not only with the type of species, but also with the agroclimatic zones. Hence, location-specific land-use systems need to be

Bamboo has a peculiar phenomenon of flowering. Flowering in bamboo draws attention, as it dies after flowering and is believed to cause famine. Gregarious flowering occurred in 1958, which was followed by the 1959 famine. John and Nadgauda showed that there is a connection between the incidence of bamboo flowering and famine, and that it may not be a myth, but a reality. (Correspondence)