AGCASS was established in 1997 to serve the farming community with graduates of agriculture and horticulture sciences using various specialized disciplines working in various areas. The goal of the project is to identify and conserve the different indigenous fodder species that are traditionally cultivated for their drought tolerance and sustained yield potential in the area of Kangayam in the Erode district. The soil of the district is predominantly red sandy to red grave type. This occurs to a large extent in Bhavani, Erode and Dharapuram Taluks. Because of prolonged drought conditions, the Erode district is facing a declining production of indigenous fodder. Reports show a decline of 50% in rainfall since 1993. Hence replenishing and rejuvenating of the traditionally grown old species of fodder grasses and trees becomes necessary. More than 500 farmers will directly benefit from the project. The main purpose of the project is to identify and conserve the different indigenous fodder species that are traditionally cultivated for their drought tolerance and sustained yield potential and to augment fodder production to phase out the heavy demand for increased cattle population and to phase out the fodder requirements during odd periods such as drought and floods. The project will organize fodder plants genetic resources for conserving indigenous fodder in the fields of farmers by fodder gene banks and improve livelihoods of the dry land farmers having livestock through adequate fodder supply. Linkages will be developed with the various departments involved in the preservation of local fodder species to enhance sheep and cattle production in the district. The objectives will be achieved through building synergies and partnerships with all the stakeholders and by creating seed banks for local panchayats.