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2022-07-01
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2022-07-01
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Latest Articles

The BDq method as a tool supporting the development of diversified structure in silver fir Abies alba Mill. stands in the Bieszczady Mountains, Southeastern Poland
Metoda BDq jako narzędzie wspierające kształtowanie zróżnicowanej struktury drzewostanów jodłowych Abies alba Mill. w Bieszczadach, w płd.−wsch. Polsce
Abstract: Silver fir Abies alba is one of the most important tree species found in Polish forests. In this study, the BDq method was used as a tool supporting the development and maintenance of the diversified structure of silver fir stands in the Bieszczady Mountains, by the example of the Lutowiska and Stuposiany Forest Districts. The role of study sites was played by 5 experimental control/sustainability units with an area of 20−30 ha each. In each of these units, 11−15 permanent circular sample plots of 0.04 ha were established. Based on the data collected from these plots, the basic parameters of the stands were calculated including total stem density, basal area and stand volume. Next, the numerical parameters of the model (target, desirable) tree diameter distribution (B, D and q) were determined. The derived theoretical distribution was compared with the empirical size distributions of individual control units in order to determine the intensity and diameter structure of selection cuts. The next stage included constructing an average tree diameter distribution for all control units and comparing it with the adopted target distribution in order to develop general guidelines for regulatory activities. The calculated (average for all sustainability units) value of the total intensity of selection cuts was 11% according to the number of trees (i.e. 37 trees/ha) and 24% according to the basal area (i.e. 8.9 m²/ha). In terms of volume, this corresponded to 120 m³/ha. The majority of trees intended for removal were in the 43−87 cm range of DBH. Every third tree in this range should be selected for removal, i.e. approximately 25 trees/ha. The rules for performing the designed selection cuts were presented in an illustrative diagram. In the discussion, the importance of using appropriate methods of regulating silvicultural activities in stands with complex structures was emphasized. In this context, the BDq method was assessed as a relatively simple and practical tool. At the same time, the importance of the proper selection of numerical values for individual parameters determining the form of the target tree diameter distribution was underlined. While in the initial period of implementing this method into practice, decisions must be rather arbitrary, over time they should increasingly take into account the reaction of forest stands to the treatments, in particular the regeneration and recruitment of trees into the stand layer.
Key words: multi−aged silviculture, q−ratio, selection system, stand basal area, stocking control, target diameter, tree diameter distribution
Linking the quantitative and qualitative approaches to assessing tree size diversity using silver fir Abies alba Mill. stands in the Zagnańsk Forest District
Ilościowe i szacunkowe metody oceny stopnia zróżnicowania wymiarowego drzew na przykładzie drzewostanów jodłowych Abies alba Mill. w Nadleśnictwie Zagnańsk
Abstract: Despite recent advances in understanding the structure and dynamics of mixed forests, uneven−aged forests and their inherent diversity remain underexplored. Tree size diversity, an integral component of forest structure, influences ecosystem functioning and plays a vital role in ecological modeling, monitoring, and silvicultural decision−support systems. Although a few quantitative indices exist to assess tree size diversity, it remains unclear: (i) which aspects of diversity they capture and (ii) how consistent they are with qualitative evaluations by forest experts, who base silvicultural decisions on personal perception. To explore the relationship between quantitative and qualitative approaches, we analysed 36 circular plots in Zagnańsk Forest, Central Poland, representing a gradient from even−aged, monolayered monospecific stands to uneven−aged, mixed silver fir−dominated stands. Based on state−of−the−art literature review, we selected and evaluated 54 variations of distance−independent tree size diversity indices. Six forestry experts categorized the plots into five tree size diversity classes using a structured questionnaire. Canonical correlation analysis revealed considerable variability in how the indices aligned with the perceptions of the experts, who showed a high degree of interrater reliability (Cohen’s Kappa=0.64). Shannon diversity and evenness indices based on tree height classes and basal area, as well as Kurtosis and Skewness of the diameter at breast height distribution, exhibited the strongest correlations with experts’ evaluations. Moreover, several other indices, including Shannon evenness, Atkinson, and Hoover indices, showed moderate to strong correlation with experts’ qualitative evaluation. Our results highlight the need to bridge the gap between mathematical concepts and applied silviculture.
Key words: distance−independent index, forest growth modelling, structural diversity, tree size inequality, unevenaged silviculture
Nature protection as a determinant of land use structure changes in Kampinos National Park
Ochrona przyrody jako czynnik determinujący zmiany w strukturze użytkowania gruntów na przykładzie Kampinoskiego Parku Narodowego
Abstract: This article examines how a national park’s land usage has changed after the region was given legal nature protection. The goal was to see if including the area in a legal form of nature protection, such as a national park, would be sufficient to stop urban pressure caused by the proximity of the Warsaw agglomeration as well as to preserve forest areas that are heavily impacted by such processes. The territorial reach included the Kampinos National Park (KPN) region. The data covers the years 1974−2020. To achieve the work’s goal, spatial analyses were conducted to estimate how the land use structure of the KPN was changing, both within the park’s boundaries and in individual municipalities within its territory: Izabelin, Kampinos, Leszno, Łomianki, Stare Babice, Czosnów, Leoncin, and Brochów. The land surface change analysis was conducted using Quantum GIS geoinformation software. The period between 1974 and 2020 was examined utilising topographic maps in both cases. In addition to the spatial analysis, the national park’s conservation assumptions were examined as well as their impact on park protection. As KPN currently lacks a protection plan, the policy’s assumptions were based on the park’s protection activities. As a result of the analysis, findings were produced that allowed for a positive reference to the KPN’s protection program. During the evaluation period, forest land increased by 5% and development investment migrated to the park’s buffer zone. The total area of agricultural land has decreased. The KPN continues to purchase property and curb the establishment of new developments. Even though there are only seven local spatial development plans in effect in the park, these instruments are nonetheless regarded as the foundation for shaping the area. The park’s protection activities include incorporating provisions that remove urban pressure on the park area into local plans and general municipal plans. As most administrative decisions are issued to determine the circumstances of building development, it is proposed that investments be agreed upon with the park’s director. Similar assumptions apply to the park’s buffer zone, where progressive investment activities are more visible than in the park itself. While built−up and urbanised land increased over the time under study, roadways had the greatest increase. Considering the results, it is possible to conclude that the KPN’s nature protection program, in terms of mitigating urban pressure, is being carried out appropriately in terms of protected forest areas and no progressive expansion of buildings observed.
Key words: buffer zone, forest land, protection assumptions, urbanisation
Implementation of spatial policy of municipalities in the light of protected areas on the example of Wigry National Park
Realizacja polityki przestrzennej gmin w świetle ochrony obszarów chronionych na przykładzie Wigierskiego Parku Narodowego
Abstract: This article is about land management in national parks. The research object was chosen to be Wigry National Park and its buffer zone within the years 2014−2023. The primary goal of the research was to determine if the application of spatial policies by municipalities located within the national park’s borders and its buffer zone can ensure adequate protection of its important natural features. To fulfil the study goal, the regulations conditions of the Wigry National Park, the land use structure, the location in relation to the municipalities, and the planning status of each municipality included in the park were investigated. In this respect, the focus was, among other things, on identifying the extent of the local plans and the type of land use in these plans. The number of buildings constructed in the park and the buffer zone in the areas covered by the local plans was verified, and the locations where the most development were taking place were identified. For such areas, selected local plans were analysed, especially from the point of view of setting nature protection and spatial requirements in the park and its buffer zone. In addition to the aforementioned studies the area of the park and its buffer zone, which was not covered by local plans, was verified. The number of buildings constructed in this area was verified as well as the sites with the highest proportion of new development. Based on examination of the planning regulations of the municipalities in the area of the park and buffer zone as well as calculations and spatial analyses, it was assessed whether the spatial policy of the municipalities is sufficient to protect the natural resources of the Wigry National Park. Furthermore, given the enormous amount of forest area in Wigry National Park, the study investigated if the spatial policy being implemented would not result in changes in the forest cover of individual municipalities. The completed investigation revealed that a minor portion of Wigry National Park was covered by local planning. Due to urbanisation as related to proximity to the Suwałki municipality which is located on the western side of the park’s buffer zone, there was higher coverage by local plans. The Suwałki municipality has the largest share of local plans. Hence the share of issued building permits and notifications based on the plans is also significant. It is anticipated that almost half of the investments in the park and its buffer zone are made based on decision of development conditions. Wigry National Park has had building investment, whereas other localities, such as Suwałki, are experiencing population decline. This could be attributed to construction of second residences for tourism purposes. In the framework of the park’s protection documents, it should be highlighted that Wigry National Park lacks a protection strategy and operates solely on protective activities.
Key words: forest cover, local plan, urbanisation
Ecological impact of forest fires on soil microbial communities and nutrient cycling in temperate and boreal forests
Ekologiczny wpływ pożarów na mikroflorę glebową oraz na obieg składników odżywczych w lasach strefy umiarkowanej i borealnej
Abstract: Forests cover over 40 million km² and account for 30% of the global land area and are critical ecosystems that host significant biodiversity. Temperate and boreal forests, particularly in the Northern Hemisphere, contain a substantial portion of Earth’s trees with temperate forests known for their high carbon (C) storage capabilities due to abundant organic matter. The dominant role of trees in these ecosystems not only define their structure but also influences the carbon input into the ecosystem often in complex forms such as wood and litter. Trees also contribute to spatial heterogeneity by creating various habitats such as the rhizosphere and phyllosphere. The microbial communities in forest ecosystems, particularly bacteria, are significantly affected by their structural and functional characteristics. Bacterial communities thrive in forest soils, and Acidobacteria, Actinobacteria, Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Firmicutes are abundant. Factors, such as pH, organic matter and climate, influence these communities. Forest soil bacteria play a crucial role in litter decomposition, particularly in temperate and coniferous forests, and contribute to carbon cycling by decomposing cellulose and other biopolymers. Forest soils are vertically stratified with distinct bacterial communities present in the organic and mineral horizons that adapt to varying organic matter content. Human activities such as logging and fire significantly influence forest ecosystems. Soil microbial communities display resilience during forest recovery with shifts in community composition and function closely tied to vegetation changes. Soil microbes are vital in nutrient cycling, especially nitrogen, and environmental factors such as temperature and pH which influence their functions. The post−disturbance recovery of forest soil and microbial communities, such as fires, is critical for ecosystem resilience. Forest fires affect microbial biomass, enzyme activities, and soil properties with fire intensity and duration being key determinants of microbial survival and soil function.
Key words: boreal forests, forest fires, nutrient cycling, soil microbial communities
Contents of the annual CLXVIII of ‘Sylwan’
Spis treści rocznika CLXVIII „Sylwana”