A new dry year is causing problems for trees in the Black Forest. The large forestry company Fürstenberg does not want to be surprised by possible fires. In the long term, a lot has to change in the forest.
Donaueschingen (dpa / lsw) - Because of the prolonged drought, the Black Forest is in danger, according to the manager of the large forestry company in Fürstenberg, Jens Borchers. "Fortunately, we are not yet on fire. But we are very concerned about the development," said Borchers of the German Press Agency in Donaueschingen.
With an area of around 180 square kilometers, the noble house of Fürstenberg is the second largest private forest owner in Germany after the Thurn and Taxis family - and the largest in Baden-Württemberg. Around two thirds of the areas are in the Black Forest.
Two years ago, the forestry company started forest fire exercises together with neighbors, said Borchers. "The fire brigades were not prepared, but very interested." It is crucial to discover and fight sources of fire early on.
"We have a change in the large-scale climatic situation," said Borchers. "The lows in the Black Forest used to rain down. Hardly any rain falls over the Black Forest during the growing season. That's really critical." When asked if he saw the Black Forest as endangered, Borchers replied: "Absolutely."
The family business is trying to make the forest climate-stable in the medium and long term. That is very expensive. "The older the trees are, the more endangered they are. That's why we rejuvenate the forest. Young trees can adapt better to temperature changes," said Borchers. Accordingly, tree species are also changed. The conifer Douglas fir appears to be particularly suitable.
The Black Forest is an internationally renowned holiday region in the southwest. The attractions include the Schluchsee, the Titisee and the 1493 meter high Feldberg.
