The forest and its multifunctional use
Rhineland-Palatinate is one of the most densely forested federal states. As of 2024, around 43% (approx. 854,000 hectares) of the state‘s area was forested. Sustainability has been the guiding principle in forestry for over 300 years. In near-natural silviculture, implemented forestry measures are oriented towards natural processes. The goal is to steer the development of forests in such a way that they provide both economic yields and social and ecosystemic services. One principle of near- natural silviculture is the establishment of species-rich mixed forests, which are also more resilient to the consequences of climate change.
At this site, two different forms of forest management can be found. On the right-hand side, a young forest is growing on the glade from the seeds of the old trees aft er clearing. Wind, birds and other animals help to disperse the seeds. In addition, new trees, Douglas firs, have been planted. A fence protection prevents browsing by roe deer and red deer. This creates a new species-rich forest. On the left , you can see an area of forest that has been almost left to grow on its own. It is a mixed forest of beech, oak, pine and spruce that can renew itself and requires only minor protection measures.
Multifunctionality of forests
Soil fertility and regeneration
Nutrient-rich humus is formed from dead plant remains with the help of soil organisms and fungi. The forest as a whole is also able to regenerate itself.
Climate protection and air pollution control
Trees need the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide (CO 2) to grow and produce at the same time oxygen (O2). Forests in Germany store approximately 5.4 tonnes of CO2 per hectare and filter approximately 50 tonnes of soot and dust per year.
Water purification and storage
In Rhineland-Palatinate, 73% of all drinking water protection areas are located in forests. Each hectare of forest can filter approximately 3 million litres of water per year.
Flood and soil protection
The root network of the trees stabilises the topsoil and thus prevents erosion. When it rains, some of the precipitation evaporates through the canopy, but a large proportion seeps into the openpored forest floor. In this way, the forest contributes significantly to flood protection.
Products
The forest in Rhineland-Palatinate provides annually over 3 million cubic metres wood. It is the basis for many other products, such as game meat, berries and mushrooms.
Jobs
Jobs in forestry and the timber industry fulfil an important socio-economic role in rural areas.
Biodiversity and recreation
The forest provides multifaceted space for the biodiversity of animals and plants. For us humans, it is a place for recreation and leisure activities.