Forests’ Future 2025 – Conference sessions
Session 1: Recent trends in forest pests and diseases occurrence, with special emphasis on bark beetle outbreaks, in individual countries and regions, and future expectations
Bark-beetle outbreaks in Central Europe have been developing considerably in recent years, causing much concern, although the situation varies among countries. While infestation levels are decreasing in some regions, in others they are on the rise. Overall, the more humid weather conditions in recent years helped to calm the situation in large areas, but the risk of recurrence due to repeated change of weather conditions in the short term remains high. For instance, historically high amounts of infestation were recorded in Bavaria, Germany, in 2024 despite a declining trend in the previous years. Another facet of novel dynamics comprises the shift of bark beetle infestations to higher elevations, as has been taking place in several mountainous regions, for instance in Italy or Austria.
Forest protection specialists from different countries are called to share their ideas and insights about the current bark beetle situation in their region of focus, to exchange information, and to build a comprehensive overview of the current dynamics at larger scales. We will discuss the ongoing bark beetle calamity, particularly in spruce stands, but also other forest stands (e.g., pine, fir, etc.), as well as other possible forest protection issues, including diseases or further damages, emerging new threats, methodology of survey, and possibilities of mitigation the damages. We propose a more informal organization of the section, but we would still hope for at least one representative talk per country. It would be useful if the presentations address the short history of the bark beetle (or other disturbance agent) calamity (start, spatial extent and dynamics over time), its current situation (infestation volume and sanitary cutting, and, if available, the situation in different categories of forest ownership), protection methods applied (including observations of their effectiveness), as well as short-term and long-term perspectives.
Session 2: Ecology and biodiversity on clear-cuts and their surroundings – impacts on forest services and landscape functioning.
The recent bark beetle outbreak has led to significant forest loss in many parts of Central Europe. Changes in microclimatic conditions, plant and animal species composition, and in ecological processes are evident at both local and landscape levels. These changes may influence the fulfilment of forest services and functions. We invite contributions related to forest hydrology, climatology, carbon sequestration, erosion, snow and avalanche protection, and biodiversity in the context of clear-cut conditions and bark beetle outbreak consequences. We also welcome discussions on management strategies to minimize negative impacts and support potential benefits for forest ecosystems and society.
Session 3: Different paths to a new generation of resilient forests – positive and/or negative experiences with reforestation.
Following the bark beetle calamity, both active and passive reforestation efforts are underway across Europe. While the goal remains the same – to establish diverse forests diversified by age, size and species composition – the strategies employed by foresters and forest owners differ. Management intensity varies, with different approaches being used to mitigate biotic and abiotic risks, enhance stability, and maintain species diversity. We welcome contributions on clear-cut regeneration and new stand management, from both research and practical perspective. How can natural forest regeneration processes be effectively utilized and incorporated? In addition to showcasing successful practices, we encourage critical analyses of unsuccessful attempts -what went wrong, what lessons were learned, and how can these insights guide future practices?
Session 4: Social and economic impacts, challenges for forest policy
The bark beetle outbreak has marked a turning point in perceptions of the climate change risks, forest stability, and sustainability of forest management. The paths to maintaining adequate forest yields, ensuring social functions, and supporting stable ecosystems are less clear than ever before. Different stakeholders – forest owners and managers, environmentalists, wood-processing industry representatives, tourists, local communities, and the general public – hold various, often conflicting views on the future of forestry. We invite discussions on forest governance strategies to minimize economic and environmental risks, tackle current and future challenges, and address societal demands. We encourage all interested parties to contribute to this session by sharing their knowledge and perspectives on forest policy, governance, and long-term sustainability. Both theoretically and practically oriented contributions are welcome.