Ecological water replenishment of forests is necessary for their survival

(Photo: AM/Tibor Vermes)

András Mocz emphasized at the event held on Wednesday that ecological water replenishment of forests does not endanger agricultural production. Where possible, within the framework of the “Water into the Landscape” program, private forest managers can also indicate their water needs, which they can announce by August 15. This program and its continuation in September can provide a suitable basis for solving water replenishment. Cooperation with the water management, agricultural and nature conservation sectors is essential for real progress – he added. According to his presentation, due to the negative effects of climate change and the prolonged drought periods, pedunculate oaks, noble poplars, domestic poplar species, pines and, in certain areas, acacias are dying on thousands of hectares in the Great Plain region, especially in the Homokhátság. At the same time, forest management companies are obliged to restore them in all cases.

András Mocz also emphasized that forests are the highest order biome, which is able to counteract the effects of climate change

Responsible, forward-looking forest planning based on domestic and international research is of paramount importance for the forests of the future. That is why the Forestry Climate Adaptation Forum was established under the leadership of the State Secretariat for Forests and Land Affairs of the Ministry of Agriculture and organized by the National Chamber of Agriculture, with the aim of developing the Forestry Climate Adaptation Strategy and the Action Plan related to the Great Plain regions. The forum aims to facilitate the adaptation of forestry to climate change with the participation of professional and scientific organizations, state, private actors and social organizations. These climate adaptation plans that are being prepared provide guidance for forest managers, he explained. At the regional event of the National Association of Private Forest Owners and Managers, the profession agreed that rethinking the concept of forest, taking into account the specificities of the Great Plain regions, can all be part of a comprehensive adaptation strategy. Increasing the resilience of forests, preserving biodiversity and gaining social support are the keys to a sustainable future.

AM