Punjab Forestry Research Institute Gatwala, Faisalabad

Introduction

Punjab Forest Research Institute, headed by the forest department, promotes sustainable forest management and the optimal use of forest resources through the knowledge and technology generated from the various researches conducted. Being the only research and training organization for forestry in Punjab, the institute has travelled a long way facing numerous difficulties.

Its development from scratch to a full-fledged institution required intensive efforts, dedication, experience, and continuity. Lack of facilities and incentives on the part of available personnel as well as shortage of manpower has been the main handicap in the full functioning of the institute.

However, despite numerous constraints and problems, particularly manpower which still exists, the achievements of the institute have been impressive and appreciable.

Punjab Forestry Research Institute, Faislabad

Objectives

Promote all types of forests including farm lands by introducing fast-growing multipurpose species.
Study tree/crop interface for improvement and designing of agroforestry systems.
Streamline tree planting practices in arid, semi-arid areas, waterlogged, and saline soils.
Develop wild lands for the production of one or more goods and services associated with forest areas such as timber, fuelwood, water, wildlife, forage, and other minor forest products.
Manage existing forest resources on a sustained yield basis by keeping proper growing stock densities, estimating growth rate, allowable cut, and ensuring natural regeneration. Further, we aim to identify the requisite Silvicultural treatments and management systems for better production.

Branches/Divisions

The Punjab Forestry Research Institute (PFRI) is functionally divided into Research and Training branch headed by the Director (BS-19). Under the control of Director, the research & training activities are executed by the respective Senior Research Officers and Divisional Forest Officer/SRO of the following:

Forest Management Branch
Range Management Branch
Extension and Training Branch
Silviculture Research Division
Sericulture Research

Research Sub-Centers

Ghora Gali
Bahawalpur

Field Stations

Changa Manga Irrigated Plantation
Chichawatni Irrigated Plantation
Shorkot Irrigated Plantation
Bhagat Irrigated Plantation
Daphar Irrigated Plantation

Punjab Forestry Research Institute Gatwala, Faisalabad