Many people have expectations of "green infrastructure" in the form of protective forests: they should prevent mudslides, avalanches, rockfalls and landslides, whilst also generating income for forest owners where possible, and serving as a natural space for a range of interests, from hunters to ski tourers. On top of this, climate change in its various manifestations — such as extreme rainfall, drought, or an increase in disturbances — represents a massive test for our protective forests.

Identifying research needs

The federal government's action programme "The Forest Protects Us!" places research at its core — research that can make a lasting contribution to improving protective forests in Austria. In the report "Protective Forests in Austria — State of Knowledge and Research Needs", 65 scientists from Austrian research institutions have summarised the current state of knowledge across eighteen subject areas, divided into foundations, ecology, management, climate change, and socially relevant aspects. The problems and challenges are presented first, followed by an identification of research gaps and a derivation of future research and development needs.

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Protective forest report: www.bfw.gv.at under News

Or direct link: www.bfw.gv.at/wp-content/uploads/sachstandsbericht_schutzwald_k.pdf

Choosing climate-resilient tree species is no easy task, especially in times of rising temperatures. The Federal Research Centre for Forests (BFW) has now developed a unique tool — the nationwide tree species traffic light — that provides an initial assessment of suitable tree species.

More information at: klimafitterwald.at