Write a note on how forests influence the quality of our air, soil and water resources.

Forests influence the quality of air, soil and water, natural resources in the following ways :

(i) Air -  Forests have large number of trees, shrubs and herbs. They take in CO₂ and give out oxygen during photosynthesis in daylight. Thus, they maintain the concentration of oxygen and carbon-dioxide in the atmosphere.

(ii) Soil -  Forest tree and other plant roots bind the soil particles. They form a vegetation cover over the fertile top soil. Forest trees check the speed of running water and wind and thus protect the soil from erosion.

(iii) Water - Forest trees are large in number and give out enourmous amount of water during transpiration in the form of water vapour. The water vapour helps in the formation of clouds which on precipitation cause rain.