Abstract

In Kerala, based on management systems, sacred groves can be categorized into 3 groups: those managed by individual families, by groups of families and by the statutory agencies for temple management (Devaswom Board) . Three groves, aollur Kavu, S.N. Puram Kavu and Iringole Kavu, respectively representing thes 3 management systems, were studied for their tree species composition and vegetation structure. The study also assessed the strengths and weaknesses of the management systems and the role of different stakeholder groups in conserving the sacred groves. The sacred grove managed by an individual family (Ollur Kavu) was highly disturbed, as indicated by the low stem density of mature trees (367 ha-1) and poor regeneration potential (ratio of mature trees to saplings 1: 0. 4) . In order to quantify the level of disturbance in the sacred groves, the Ramakrishnan index of stand quality (RISQ) was calculated. The values obtained for all 3 tree layers (mature trees, saplings and