State forests: the bark beetle season might be less severe

Nature Surroundings - State forests: the bark beetle season might be less severe

There are signs pointing to a more moderate pine bark beetle season in Lower Saxony than in previous years. This could be due to the wet winter weather and the recurrent rainfall in spring, according to a representative from the Lower Saxony State Forests, who manage the state's forestland. With around a third of the forest area in the federal state being controlled by the State Forests, their efforts are crucial.

Apart from the weather and the depletion of spruce stands - as per the State Forests, up to 95% of spruce trees in the Harz region were destroyed in October - additional measures are also yielding results. The State Forests are focused on felling infected spruce trees and removing them from the forest to prevent the beetles from spreading further. If the trees do not pose a threat to other trees or people, they are left standing to serve as protection for newly planted seedlings.

In recent times, spruce trees have been particularly prone to the pine bark beetle, owing to storms and drought. This has led to a rapid rise in their population, especially in the Harz region.

Elder trees under threat

Currently, the elm tree is causing concern. Its crowns are being infested by the elm bark beetle, which eventually kills the trees. In certain parts of Hesse and Saxony-Anhalt, significant damage has already been caused in the past few years, mentioned the representative. The species is, therefore, being closely observed to promptly take down infected trees.

The recent extreme weather conditions, which have made trees more vulnerable to pests like insects, have impacted all tree species. Insects, on the other hand, have thrived under these conditions. The beech tree is also suffering from drought damage, making it more vulnerable to attacks by insects and fungal diseases. [Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)]

Read also:

1. The wet weather conditions during the winter and spring have been projected to result in a less severe bark beetle season in the animal habitat and forestry area of Lower Saxony.
2. The focus on nature conservation in Lower Saxony includes not only weather monitoring but also the protection of various animal species like elms, which are currently under threat due to the elm bark beetle.
3. The harsh climate and weather, which have left trees more vulnerable to pests, have resulted in a surge in the population of the pine bark beetle, particularly in the environment of the Harz region.
4. The efforts of the Lower Saxony State Forests, responsible for managing about a third of the forest area in the federal state, are crucial in controlling the spread of the bark beetle and promoting nature conservation.
5. Nature surrounds Hanover, and the state's climate, along with the seasonal weather changes, significantly impacts the environmental health and the wellbeing of various animal species living in the region.
6. Proper forest management practices and the use of new techniques to tackle climatic challenges, such as the bark beetle infestation, are vital for ensuring the survival of the natural world and its inhabitants in the environmental conservation efforts of Lower Saxony.

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