Spatially-explicit simulation models for the natural regeneration of oak in pure pine stands of the Northeast German lowlands (SIMONA-REX)
The silvicultural methods and techniques available for establishing natural regeneration have a long tradition in Central Europe. Silvicultural action is faced with a particular challenge when it comes to enriching pure pine or spruce stands with mixed tree species in a near-natural way. Artificial forest conversion methods can prove to be labor-intensive and costly, depending on the initial conditions of the site or stand. This applies all the more if the future target tree species, which is to be established using a near-natural regeneration process, is not present in the defined forest conversion area, or only to a limited extent. The planned research project aims to scientifically support the improvement of near-natural regeneration strategies in regions with difficult site and unfavorable structural conditions. To this end, the natural regeneration potential of oak in pine-dominated areas will be quantitatively determined at landscape and stand level. The occurrence of the seed trees, the dispersal potential of the oaks, the presence of old oaks, the stand constellation of the pine stand and the filter effect of the accompanying vegetation are included in the spatially-explicit analyses as decisive influencing variables. Based on these analyses, simulation tools are developed that contribute to the expansion of near-natural silviculture and forest management concepts. With their help, the effects of forest treatment scenarios for different initial situations can be tested in advance and optimal implementation in practice can be supported. The research project thus makes a significant contribution to improving the flexibility and adaptation of near-natural regeneration strategies in regions with difficult initial conditions.