Rotary Earth Park
Located in heart of Chikkmagaluru in Gandhinagara 1EARTH with Rotary Club Chickmagalur a large size compared to other parks in Chikkmagaluru. It was lying barren with sun burnt red soil.
Chikmagalur lack large green spaces, these is increasing temperature in heart of town creating heat island.
- Location: Gandhinagara Park, BSNL road, Opposite to Anche Naukarara Bhavana , Chikkamagaluru 577101.
- Co-ordinates : 13°18’53″N 75°46’43″E
- Total Area: 0.3 Acres(Approximately)
- Topography and Gradient:
The spans from North to South 252 feet. Main gate entrance facing west and small gate at north end of park. Width tapers from north to south 57 feet to 29 feet. Whole Park is well fenced and roads wrapped in all borders of the borders. The park area has a gentle slope of approximately [5% ] which facilitates natural drainage but there is issue of water logging in lower side of park. The gradient is optimal for rainwater percolation pits and Miyawaki forest plantation. - Soil Quality:
Soil tests indicate Loamy red soil with poor fertility, needs improvement and application of organic planting manure before planting. Suitable for a variety of native and ornamental plant species.
Our approach
:To promote urban greenery in Chikkamagaluru, the Rotary Club Chikamagalur and 1Earth Trust Chikkamagaluru have jointly Adopted and Developed this park in Gandhi Nagara.
Designed as a sustainable community space, the park features a walking path, a Miyawaki forest with native trees, a rainwater absorption pit, ornamental plants, and future plans for an open-air stage, a dedicated children’s play area, and an open gym.
Beyond its development, Rotary Club and 1Earth Trust will upkeep and maintain the park , ensuring its long-term impact on the environment. This green initiative actively contributes to lowering the city’s temperature, fostering ecological balance and community well-being
2. Current Ecological Condition
Air Quality:
- Moderate pollution due to urban emissions
- Presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from vehicular and construction sources.
- Oxygen levels fluctuate due to sparse vegetation and human activities.
Temperature Impact:
- Urban heat island effect from excessive concrete and asphalt surfaces.
- Lack of shade increases surface temperatures, making the park less comfortable.
- Limited evaporation and cooling due to insufficient green cover.
Soil Degradation:
- Reduced organic matter from improper waste disposal.
- Erosion risk due to exposed soil and limited tree cover.
- Declining microbial activity affecting soil fertility.
Rainwater Management:
- Low ground water recharge due to inefficient percolation pits.
- Increased surface runoff leading to water logging.
- Limited vegetation reducing absorption and filtration efficiency.
- Minimal natural water retention due to compacted soil.
Vegetation:.
- Sparse greenery with a few scattered shrubs and grasses. No significant tree cover currently
Wildlife:
Limited presence of small birds and insects; habitat quality is low due to lack of dense foliage and native plants.
3. Ecological Benefits of Tree Planting
- Planting shade trees along side of walking path.
- Ornamental plants and Ayurvedic Block
- Miyawaki forest
- Open area
- Creepers and orchids
- Water rejuvenation
3.1 Planting shade trees along side of walking path.
Increases shades , promote community to utilize park for activities. Reduces temperature. Improves aesthetics of park.
As the soil quality is poor, need to add organic manure need to be added for plant pits.
3.2 Enhancing Aesthetic Appeal with Ornamental Plants
Shade Areas:
- Caladium (Angel Wings) – Large, vibrant leaves for contrast.
- Ferns , Spider plants – Soft texture, excellent air purification.
Sunlit Areas:
- Marigolds, Rose , Kanagalu, Nandi battalu – Bright flowers, pest-resistant.
- Canna Lilies – Tropical-style blooms.
- False Lobsters – Butterfly-attracting, heat-resistant.
Pathways & Borders:
- Nithya pushapa, Coleus – Aromatic and calming effect.
- Hibiscus , Catus Rose –flowers.
- Coleus – Multi-colored foliage for contrast.
Ayurvedic Block
Plant Ayurvedic local use plants like Tulasi, Kamkasturi, Doddapatre, Alovera, Nagadalli
Ornamental and Ayurvedic plants should be planted either before or after the monsoon, depending on their ideal planting season.
3.3 Miyawaki Forest Development (0.03 Acre)
Concept Overview:
The Miyawaki Method promotes dense afforestation using native species for rapid ecological restoration.
Implementation Plan:
- Tree Layers:
- Canopy Trees: Tall, long-lived native species.
- Sub-canopy Trees: Medium-height fruit and shade trees.
- Shrubs & Ground Cover: Low-growing plants to prevent erosion.
- Planting Density: 3-5 trees per square meter for high biodiversity impact.
- Use local variety of planting trees list of plants are given at end.
On ground Plan
Area of perimeter of 55 meters identified at corner of park.
- Length 68 feet * 16 feet.
- 2 Plants at distance of 4 feet
Shrub 15% height 5 meters. Sub tree 25% height 10 meters
Tree 50% height 20 meters . Canopy 10% height 20+ meters
Major 5 species should be 50% supporting plants 25%
A approach path of 2 feet in between till middle of forest. - Trees should be selected as per per availability during actual work.
- As the soil quality is poor, need to add organic manure need to be added for plant pits.
3.4 Open AREA
60% of Park identified to be open area and for future development.
This open area helps in air circulation ,water catchment and for community usage.
3.5 Arches for Flowering Creepers
- Purpose: Adds vertical green elements and seasonal flowers to beautify the park.
- Material: Weather-resistant cement poles, treated wood, or reinforced bamboo.
- Placement: Entryways, pathways, seating areas for a scenic experience.
- Plant Species: Bougainvillea, Jasmine, Saffron pipe, Morning Glory, and other suitable creepers.
- Benefits:
- Provides colorful visual appeal.
- Supports pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
3.4 Rainwater Percolation Pit
- Design: 3 – 2ft x 4ft pit with filled with gravel and sand to facilitate water seepage.
Pits should be create before miyawaki forest and open area.
Park gentle grandniece will be utilized for flow water to percolation pit. No terrain change is required and natural aesthetics of park will be maintained.
- Benefits:
- Enhances groundwater recharge.
- Reduces surface runoff and flooding risks.
- Supports water availability for plants during dry seasons.
- Reduces waterlogging and risk of water borne diseases like malaria, dengue. Chikungunya.
4. Benefits & Environmental impact post plan implementation
Temperature Regulation:
- Trees provide shade and evaporative cooling, reducing local temperature by 2-4°C.
- Dense foliage balances humidity levels, improving thermal comfort.
Air Quality Improvement:
- Carbon sequestration: Absorbing CO₂, reducing greenhouse gas concentrations.
- Pollutant filtration: Leaves trap particulate matter , NOx and harmful airborne toxins.
- Increased oxygen production: Enhancing urban air quality.
Biodiversity Enhancement:
- Supports local pollinators (bees, butterflies), birds, and small mammals.
- Creates habitat corridors, fostering wildlife movement.
- Strengthens ecosystem resilience against climate fluctuations.
Soil & Water Conservation:
- Root structures prevent soil erosion, improving stability and fertility.
- Rainwater infiltration: Deep-rooted trees enhance groundwater recharge.
- Retention ponds & percolation pits: Tree roots filter and purify water, reducing contaminants.
6. Recommendations for Long-Term Sustainability
- Increase tree cover by 30% to improve temperature and air quality.
- Introduce percolation pits strategically for better water conservation.
- Use native tree species to maximize ecological adaptability.
- Promote community involvement for long-term maintenance.
- Integrate smart irrigation systems for efficient water use. Like Solar water pump and drip irrigation zero maintains water irrigation system.
- Use organic fertilizer to enhance the soil quality before planting.
By implementing these measures, the park can become an eco-friendly urban lung, benefiting biodiversity, climate resilience, and public well-being.