Due to prolonged dry spells, pure spruce stands are highly susceptible to bark beetle infestations, resulting in the death of large areas of forest in many parts of Thuringia. In large collaborative projects, including those with ThüringenForst, we at Friedrich Schiller University in Jena are researching innovative approaches for the successful reforestation of dead spruce stands. For example, we are investigating the influence of deadwood on the microclimate, the planting and seeding of various tree species, and ecosystem processes such as soil respiration and decomposition. The effects of deadwood on the microclimate and soil processes are recorded using various measuring devices. You can see some of them at our booth! We’ll provide insights into the methods of our research project and how sustainable reforestation can be implemented in the face of climate change.
