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Description
As part of the project, we focus on caring for old senescent trees and improving conditions for the species for which these trees provide shelter or food. These include various types of insects, birds and lichens. The measures that we will implement include, for example, stabilization cuts, the establishment of new research areas, the creation of a database of senescent trees and others. Based on the findings, we will create a methodology that will serve to share our experience. In cooperation with a Norwegian partner, we will also organize several workshops in the Czech Republic, Norway and Sweden, where we will share examples of good practice at the international level.
Summary of project results
Our project shines a spotlight on the fascinating world of veteran trees and their unique ecosystems, while also prioritizing the education of both professionals and the general public. With a deep commitment to preserving these ancient giants, we set out to achieve several key objectives:
Implementing Management Interventions: We focused on applying veteranization techniques and crafting comprehensive management plans to ensure the health and longevity of these remarkable trees.
Assessing Ecological Impact: Our team meticulously evaluated how these interventions affect microhabitats, saproxylic organisms, and the trees themselves, providing crucial insights into their ecological roles.
Developing Care Methodologies: We aimed to establish a robust methodology for the care of senescent and veteran trees, ensuring that they continue to thrive for generations to come.
Organizing Engaging Workshops: To foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for veteran trees, we organized interactive workshops, bringing together experts and enthusiasts alike.
Creating a Shared Database: Finally, we initiated the development of a shared database dedicated to senescent trees, serving as a valuable resource for research and conservation efforts.
Through these initiatives, we hope to inspire a greater appreciation for veteran trees and their indispensable role in our ecosystems.
As part of our ambitious project, we focused on the care and management of 351 trees, contributing to their longevity and health. Our efforts included a careful assessment of the impact of various interventions on the trees and their microhabitats, leading to fascinating discoveries about biodiversity. For instance, we identified 42 species of lichens and 279 species of saproxylic beetles on veteranized trees, with 64 listed in the Red List of invertebrates. On pruned trees, we found 51 species of lichens (including 40 species from the Red List) and 172 species of insects (with 39 being endangered).
Based on these findings, we developed a care plan for specific trees, which will be made available to the managers of project areas. We also published expert methodologies such as "Practical Arboriculture" and "Care for Senescent Trees," which serve as valuable resources for professionals and enthusiasts alike. An important output of our efforts is the Shared Database of Senescent Trees, which is linked to the AOPK Finding Database. This database facilitates the mutual sharing of information about the occurrence of organisms on specific trees, contributing to biodiversity conservation.
To disseminate knowledge and raise awareness about the significance of trees, we created two instructional videos and organized a traveling exhibition that engaged the general public. Additionally, we published expert and popularization materials that provide information on tree care and their ecological importance.
Our direct interventions in nature had positive impacts on the environment, extending the viability of trees and promoting the emergence of old trees, which are crucial for the migration of dependent organisms. The indirect impact of our activities is reflected through educational workshops, where participants learned specialized techniques for aging trees. This knowledge transfer is vital for replenishing the missing generation of trees in undergrowth and ensuring a healthy ecosystem for the future.
For more information, visit our website www.starestromy.cz.
Summary of bilateral results
The involvement of the Norway partner - Tree Solution was ongoing throughout the project. Consultations were mainly related to the implementation of management measures, especially veteranization, preparation of care plans for individual trees and preparation of both methodologies.One of the results of the cooperation is the preparation of a joint scientific publication, which is now in manuscript form and all partners will be involved in its completion after the end of the project.Both workshops were very useful, especially in Scandinavia, because these countries have extensive experience with veteran trees care and we had the opportunity to discuss the methods with different local arborists in different environments (parks, avenues, forests). During the workshop in the Czech Republic we then discussed tree care in our territories with our foreign partners. The partner brought their know-how to the project and contributed greatly to its successful implementation. At the same time, our cooperation with them has moved us forward not only professionally but also organizationally. At the same time, the information that our organizations are also taking care of veteran trees both practically and methodologically (CSOP Vlašim and CSOP Arboricultural Academy) and research-wise (Biological Centre) has entered the awareness of the general public both in the Czech Republic and abroad.