Resin Tapping in Kumaon

Indian resin research to date hardly commensurate with the industry's importance. Recent field studies in light tapping, as practised since 1916, confirm fears of premature exhaustion, indicating that tapping life expectancy of the smallest tapped trees must be shortened from 70 to under 50 Februarys and for typical coupes to less than 60 Februarys, considering all decremental factors. The implications for future resin management discussed, with suggestions for modifying both tapping method and somewhat laissez-faire silviculture.