Storm damage to European forests is predicted to increase in the future if current forestry management practices continue, according to the findings of a new research project.
The project, “Destructive storms in European forests – past and forthcoming impacts”, found that projections of storm tracks suggest storms will affect larger areas and penetrate further to the east of the continent.
It says the growing stocks and age of forests are increasing and this would further aggravate forests’ vulnerability to storm damage.
Project leader Barry Gardiner said there was an obvious need for national and regional contingency plans, improved insurance systems, more flexibility in regulations and access to funds and clear guidelines to help with forest management.
Sharing of knowledge and practices between countries should also be encouraged.
The project also wants to see the EU provide a platform to make key information available before and after storms, such as, mapping areas likely to be affected, immediate damage assessments and global timber prices to in marketing storm-damaged timber.
