Der Nationalpark Hochharz - ein kompaktes Wald-Großschutzgebiet

1999

S. 676-679

9 Lit. Ang.

Unselbständiges Werk

200090054

The 5,846-hectare large Hochharz National Park, part of the Sachsen-Anhalt State Forest Administration, is essentially comprised of montane to high-montane spruce stands as well as the sub alpine dwarf heath shrubs growing above the climatic forest line. The wind-exponential location and the cool, wet climate significantly influence natural plant composition Apart from environmental and research purposes, the protected area was established in 1990 to ensure that processes in the existing large-scale natural spruce forests and scattered mountain moors remain undisturbed. At present, 38% of the area is no longer subject to silvicultural measures. The damaged ecosystems located on the outer region of the development area, in particular pure spruce populations on mountain mixed forest sites, are now only regenerated in a first phase by initial plantings of missing deciduous shrubs and by structural improvement through tending operations. An ambitious goal in this spruce region is likewise the decision to combat or simply control the Norway spruce engraver Ips typographus. Since natural regulators are lacking, corrective measures are also necessary for herbivorous hoofed game. Game regulation is exclusively an internal operation and effective hunting methods are employed. For the future, especial emphasis will be given to expanding the National Park area and revising the Regulations Governing a Protected Area.