Forest functions in the past, present and future - what can society expect from forests under climate change?

Project facts

Project promoter:
Global Change Research Institute CAS(CZ)
Project Number:
CZ-RESEARCH-0002
Status:
Completed
Final project cost:
€1,826,121
Donor Project Partners:
Norwegian University of Life Sciences(NO)
Other Project Partners
Forestry and Game Management Research Institute (FGMRI)(CZ)
Mendel University in Brno(CZ)
Vojenské lesy a statky ČR (VLS)(CZ)
Programme:

More information

Description

The project deals with the ability of managed forests to provide ecosystem functions in future conditions characterized by higher drought and heatwaves occurrence – wood production (inc. carbon storage) and climate change mitigation (regulation of landscape energy and water balance) in the Czech Rep. and Norway. We will focus on 1) different site conditions; 2) potential for adaptation of important tree spec. (spruce; pine; beech), 3) potential for silvicultural measures implementation, 4) potential to apply those measures in practise. The goals will be reached by use of: timelines, climate models for predictions (till 2050); remote sensing and validation of its outputs with detailed field measurements both in long-term research plots and forests managed by VLS and Glommen-Mjøsen.

Summary of project results

The project aimed to address the impact of climate change, specifically increased drought and heat waves, on the ability of managed forests to provide ecosystem functions like wood production and climate change mitigation. This project investigated the impact of climate change on forest health and productivity in the Czech Republic and Norway.
 

Researchers combined historical climate data, forest health monitoring, airborne laser scanning, and satellite data to assess current forest conditions and predict future trends. They developed models to estimate forest biomass and evapotranspiration, and categorized forests based on their functions. The project produced digital maps and climate projections to support informed forest management decisions.

The project provided insights into forest management and adaptation strategies in the face of climate change. It created a unique monitoring network, analyzed forest functions, and developed predictive models for forest responses to climate change. These results benefit scientific researchers, forestry professionals, and policymakers involved in forest management and climate change adaptation.

Summary of bilateral results

The positive bilateral collaboration between academic institutions and research organizations has led to a strengthened partnership, fostering continuous knowledge exchange. This cooperation has created a dynamic environment for mutual learning and advancement.

Information on the projects funded by the EEA and Norway Grants is provided by the Programme and Fund Operators in the Beneficiary States, who are responsible for the completeness and accuracy of this information.