Forest Foliar Condition in Europe : Results of large-scale foliar chemistry surveys (survey 1995 and data from previous years)

1997

207 S.

zahlr. Lit. Ang.

Bandaufführung

3-901347-05-4

72568

This report summarizes the results of the first survey of the chemical content of needles and leaves carried out on the systematic grid (16x16 km; level I) in the framework of the International Cooperative Programme on Assessment and Monitoring of Air Pollution Effects on Forests (ICP Forests) and the European Union Scheme on the Protection of Forests against Atmospheric Pollution. The needle and leaf analytical data provide information on the actual nutrient state of forest trees on a European-wide basis, and also any possible nutrient imbalances that may be of importance in connection with new-type forest damage. In addition, such data can also be used as indicators to assess the site specific stress situation caused by air pollution and air-borne depositions. Correlative studies with other datasets within the European Union/ICP Forests-framework (Crown and Soil Condition datasets) is also possible. The foliar database contains information on 1395 plots in 16 European countries (Austria, Belgium-Wallonia, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republik, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Lithuania, Norway, Russia-St. Petersburg Region, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and United Kingdom). The survey was carried out using a common methodology. The comparability of the data was ensured by means of two intercalibration tests, which demostratet that macronutrients with a slight exeption for sulphur and some micronutrient concentrations could be compared across participating countries. The first evaluation of the data showed that a wide range in foliar nutrient concentrations exists in the countries in Europe. Generally, most plots have an adequate nutrient status. In a relative high number of plots in Germany, Slovakia and from United Kingdom high levels of nitrogen and sulphur were found. The results of German Lands with high air pollution-related nitrogen and sulphur values give the evaluation of the nutrient and air pollution situation a different dimension than if only the results of 1995 (Germany-Lower Saxony) are considered. In contrast, in an important number of plots low nitrogen concentrations were observed especially in Bulgaria, Croatia, Finland, Lithuania, Norway and Russia - St. Petersburg Region.