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District forest
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The forestry operation of the Oberberg district manages around 950 hectares of forest areas within the district. The goal is to develop the district forest in the long term as a resilient, close-to-nature, and versatile habitat. Economic viability, ecological responsibility, and the needs of the people in the region are equally prioritized.
Climate change is altering forests
The past years have shown how significantly climate change is altering forests. Especially the dry years between 2018 and 2022 led to major losses of spruce stands.
The Oberbergischer Kreis is responding with a future-oriented forest conversion: moving away from vulnerable monocultures towards diverse mixed forests with predominantly native tree species.
New concepts
The foundation of the new concept is close-to-nature continuous forest management. The forest should regenerate as much as possible on its own.
Natural processes are purposefully utilized and supported. Interventions are carried out cautiously and only where they are sensible and justifiable.
The goal is a stable forest with diverse tree species, age structures, and habitats, which provides wood, stores water, protects the climate, and simultaneously serves as a recreational space for the population.
Research, collaboration, and transparency
The forestry operation places special emphasis on research, collaboration, and transparency. Together with universities, specialist institutions, and regional partners, new approaches to climate-adapted forest development are tested and scientifically monitored.
At the same time, the Oberberg district is committed to environmental education and public relations to highlight the importance of a healthy forest for nature, the economy, and society.
District Forest of the Future
The district forest should remain a vibrant part of the Oberberg cultural landscape in the future – as a natural space, sustainable resource, and common good for future generations.
Contact
District forest manager
Christoph Weber
