According to Sachsenforst, no major damage has been reported in the state's forests so far following the sometimes strong winds in Saxony. Spokesman Marco Horn said that the forest is well prepared for possible fall and winter storms. The trees along public roads are regularly checked - not only after storms, but throughout the year.
After strong winds, the foresters also check their areas to record damage and clear paths if necessary. Fallen trees are not always left lying around. "In areas such as national parks, we want to protect natural processes. However, in other stands - for example in larger spruce areas - there is a risk of bark beetles developing in the storm wood," said Horn. In order to prevent pest infestation, such wood is therefore processed promptly.
Forest visitors should be careful in strong winds. "We generally advise people to decide for themselves whether they really want to go into the forest." Because anyone who enters the forest does so at their own risk.
The Free State of Saxony owns around 209,000 hectares of forest. The state-owned company Sachsenforst is responsible for managing them in accordance with the law. In addition to timber utilization, its central tasks include nature conservation, forest conversion and safeguarding the recreational function.
