Future of the forests: How to change storm damage to the afforestation

Future of the forests: How to change storm damage to the afforestation

Hartberg, Österreich - In September 2024, a catastrophic storm swept through over 150 km/h through Eastern Styria and left a desolate picture: giant trees uprooted and walder devastated! Countless forest owners face the challenge of how to proceed after the devastating destruction of their forests. According to Orf Styria , the clean -up work is already well advanced, but the question remains: Do you really want to plant new trees? After all, the Chamber of Agriculture has already recommended to select suitable tree species that are not only more climate, but can also strengthen the natural area.

Waldtyping allows experts to specifically make suggestions for tree species that could thrive over the next 80 to 100 years. Departments like oak and cherry are very popular, as are conifers such as spruce and pine. Nevertheless, reforestation is an emotional topic, especially for those who have invested in building up their forests for decades. Klement Moosbacher, a forest owner from Hartberg, emphasizes that despite the destruction, he is committed to his legacy and wants to plant new trees. But not everyone is so optimistic; Some consider to just let nature get going again and do without active afforestation.

preventive measures and tree species selection

like Waldhilfe , regular forest care can help to avoid future damage and thus minimize the need to reforest. By stabilizing the upper stand, i.e. the older generation of tree, and the early establishment of young trees can be significantly increased in the resilience of the forest. Mixed forests are particularly advantageous here because they are less susceptible to the challenges of climate change.

The creation of so -called wise gates is an effective method to offer young trees a protected space for development, while at the same time an overcoption of game can be reduced. In order to protect the forest and to facilitate a possible reforestation in the future, forest owners should become active in good time. The example of Klement Moosbacher and the advice of the forester could be a guide for many forest owners in this difficult time.