Conservation Problems of Natural Forest Ecosystems on the Slopes of High Mountains (Alps) with Regard to Ecological and Economic Consequences of their Destruction
The great variety of forest communities in the Alps is briefly discussed. In many cases human impact in the past has led to uniform structures and to regeneration problems. Using the situation in Austria as an example, the extent of the 'new forest disease is shown and its consequences for ecology and economy in Alpine regions are pointed out, from the disturbance of water exchange and increase of avalanche activity to the loss of recreation areas and traditional homelands. The few silvicultural strategies which exist against forest dieback are briefly discussed.
