In the coming weeks, foresters will again be looking for browsing marks from deer, stags and chamois at around 22,000 measuring points in Bavaria’s forests. Forestry Minister Michaela Kaniber (CSU) gave the starting signal for the preparation of the next vegetation report on Thursday.
Every three years, the state government surveys the condition of shoots and buds in order to better assess the condition of the forests in the Free State. Previous reports had found that wild animals had increasingly eaten young trees.
“In times of climate change, it is of vital importance to preserve our forests for future generations. But this can only be achieved if climate-resistant tree species have a chance to grow into sustainable mixed forests,” said Kaniber. Where there is too much game, the tree species that are urgently needed for sustainable forests are often lost. “The survey that is now starting is active climate protection.”
Based on the data collected, the offices for food, agriculture and forestry would prepare the so-called “forestry reports on the situation of forest regeneration” after the survey. They would evaluate whether or not browsing was acceptable for the forest in the 750 conservancy communities across the country. According to Kaniber, the reports would objectively and transparently show where forests and wildlife are in harmony and where there is still a need for action. The process is aimed at closely involving forest owners and hunters.
She appealed to those involved to accompany the foresters during the surveys and to clarify any open questions on site. The “Forest Report” has been produced since 1986, this year for the 14th time. The results are to be presented in the state parliament in November.