Young forester fights for Bavaria's forests in the face of climate change!

Young forester fights for Bavaria's forests in the face of climate change!

In the green heart of Munich, especially in Forstenrieder Park, the forests face major challenges. The young forester Simone Brunner, who completed her exam with an impressive 1.0, has set out to defy the conditions of climate change. At just 25 years old, she brings a fresh perspective to the forestry industry, where the drought monitor keeps sounding the alarm. In 2003, 2011, 2015, 2018, 2020 and 2022 the soil was severely dried out, endangering the vitality of the trees.

But there is also hope. Thanks to the rainy years of 2023 and 2024, the situation was able to ease a little. Brunner reports that positive results were recorded in the 2024 forest condition survey and needle and leaf loss have not increased. Despite this relief, the pressure from climate change remains high, which brings with it longer dry periods and thus puts pressure on the forests in Bavaria. The key to adapting forests to these challenges lies in the water balance, as the Federal Environment Agency emphasizes shows.

Climate-friendly reforestation

Brunner, who works in the forests around Egmating and Grünwald, reforests around 40 hectares every year. Up to 120,000 young trees will be planted to create more climate-resilient mixed forests that can better withstand current challenges. The choice of tree species is crucial: species such as black pine, Scots pine, sessile oak and Norway maple are better adapted to dry conditions, while spruce is considered less tolerant. The aim is to increase the resilience of forests and promote their adaptability according to the Federal Agency for Nature Conservation.

“A tree of the future,” as Brunner calls it, is a marked tree that receives special care to promote diversity in the forest. These targeted interventions are part of a broader strategy that aims to address tree vitality weakened by long periods of drought. In addition, the number of trainees in the forestry sector in Bavaria has increased, which shows that young people are interested in environmentally friendly careers. In September 2023, 150 new trainees will start their careers in forestry.

The dangers in the forest

But the job also comes with risks. Brunner warns of the dangers posed by wild boars and falling trees. Pests such as bark beetles are also a constant threat. Monitoring these pests is important in order to take timely action. Over 50% of forest fires are caused by human activity, which is why prevention measures and public awareness are of great importance to prevent future fires says the Federal Environment Agency.

Brunner's tireless commitment and the increasing cooperation between federal, state and local governments in the context of forest conversion are crucial to not only protect forests, but also to maintain their functions and ecological services. The protection and diverse use of forests is a common task that affects us all.

It is up to us to share the hope for sustainable and robust forest management and to support the next generations in this important task.