Betriebliche Sanierungsmaßnahmen

1998

S. 261-312, 363-365

Unselbständiges Werk

200065986

In this chapter, possible forest restoration measures are discussed. Forest grazing, responsible for root damage and soil degradation in the past, is no longer of importance in most parts of the Gleinalm area. Currently, the excessive game population, inhibiting regeneration of mixed stands due to browsing, and in the case of red deer, leading to stem rot due to debarking of trees, is the most severe problem. Thus, the regulation of the game population and the protection of the regeneration is necessary. Harvesting measures should be carried out in such a way that nutrient losses and erosion are minimized (avoidance of clearcuts and whole tree harvesting, especially on shallow sites or unstable slopes). Dense pole stands should be thinned as soon as possible to enhance stability against windthrow and snow damage, while improving nutrient turnover and the supply of water. The treatment of stumps with fungicides or antagonistic fungi could inhibit the spread of stem rot via root crafting. The choice of tree species is restricted by site parameters the most important being elevation. As far as possible, mixed stands reflecting the potential natural vegetation should form the next forest generation. A mixture of deep rooting European larch and Silver fir are both necessary for the utilization of the site potential (water and nutrients in deeper soil hirizons) and the stability of slopes. On eutrophic soils in lower elevations, hardwood species like Sycamore maple and European beech would improve nutrient turnover rates. Wherever possible, natural regeneration is preferable. Competition by grass and shrubs can either be reduced by herbicides or mechanical treatment. Tilling can improve seed bed conditions where humus forms are unfavourable for germination. If desirable tree species like beech or maple are missing in the old growth stands, underplanting may be necessary. Fertilization of seedling and saplings may improve competitiveness against weeds. In case of soil degradation, fertilizing and liming is required for the establishment of tree species like beech and maple. If nutritional disorders are diagnosed, fertilization of stands should be considered. However, aspects like protection of water and sensitive plant communities must be taken into account.