Integrate+

The field trip started off with a general introduction to the Bavarian Forest Enterprise Ebrach, followed by an in-depth presentation to the practiced forest biodiversity and stepping stone concept. A Martelsocope exercise at the site ‘Steinkreuz’ was performed applying the “I” software package. The exercise results sparked extensive discussions with the Ebrach district foresters. The discussion after the exercise focussed on the forest biodiversity conservation concept applied in Ebrach and its results and impacts. The second day closed the event with a visit to a ‘coppice with standards’ forest in the village of Iphofen. During the two days a lively exchange took place mainly around the following issues: (1) management of beech forests under climate change, species diversification and approaches for forest biodiversity enrichment and (2) the role and management of deadwood, tree species composition and harvesting methods.

A highly welcome addition during the two days was the participation of the Head Foresters of the City Forests ‘Lübeck’ and ‘Göttingen’. Their input and sharing of experience from “urban” forestry and their well-known biodiversity and forest management added an even more holistic view and further perspectives to the topic of integrating biodiversity conservation into forest management.

As a main outcome it was agreed that a follow-up visit will take place to the Lübeck City Forest to learn more about their management concepts and visit their Martelsocope ‘Lauerholz’.