Experimental Setup and Transfer to Practitioners

The project aims to significantly contribute to developing practical deadwood management on large disturbance areas previously stocked with spruce. By capturing complex influencing factors that determine the regeneration success of tree species and the competitive potential of accompanying vegetation, a direct link to the immediate effects of different deadwood variants can be demonstrated. Quantifying site-specific, climatic, vegetation-dependent, and economic key parameters will highlight those silvicultural options that facilitate the integration of above-average deadwood volumes into forestry practice.

Key parameters controllable by silvicultural measures will be identified, along with regeneration risks and opportunities. The spatial and temporal analyses enable the transfer of results to practitioners, without neglecting economic goals. By stepwise action recommendations, co-developed with practitioners, a straightforward argument-based decision-making tool will be provided.

The study areas were established as demonstration and training sites by the Forest research and competence center Gotha (FFK Gotha) and the Oberhof Forestry Office, and thus provide a foundation for long-term monitoring of disturbed site development. Training programs led by FFK Gotha help transfer project findings into forestry practice.

Practice-orientated research at ThüringenForstExternal link

Collaborators: Sascha Spaleck, Ingolf Profft, Dr Nico Frischbier, Dr Alexander Tischer