what is deforestation?

Deforestation is the removal of a large tree or group of trees by a human, natural force, or deliberate action. The concentration and removal of forests to obtain resources has been occurring since at least the beginning of agriculture, but with forests disappearing rapidly in recent decades, such deforestation is becoming increasingly problematic for ecosystems and local communities. There are many causes for deforestation including commercial logging, mining activities on marginal land and even farming methods like slash-and-burn (to clear land). Deforestation can increase erosion and can change water flow patterns, negatively affecting important resources such as rivers which provide useful water for drinking.