Folia Forestalia Polonica Feed

Comprehensive assessment of the condition of Crimean pine (Pinus nigra subsp. pallasiana (Lamb.) Holmboe) stands on eroded lands in the Right-Bank Forest-Steppe of Ukraine

Thu, 17 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The relevance of this study connected with the need to assess the condition of planted stands of Crimean pine (Pinus nigra subsp. pallasiana (Lamb.) Holmboe) established on eroded ravine and gully lands. The objective of this study was comprehensively assess the condition of Crimean pine (Pinus nigra subsp. pallasiana (Lamb.) Holmboe) stands established on eroded ravine and gully lands in the Right-Bank Forest-Steppe of Ukraine by: analysing their silvicultural and mensurational characteristics; evaluating the physical and agrochemical properties of the soils; determining the relationships between stand development and soil-improving processes; and assessing stand condition using an integrated condition index based on a wide range of indicators. The methodology for studying the condition of pine stands was to collect the various indicators data: silvicultural and mensurational data, as well as the physical and agrochemical properties of the soil. The study included the following forestry and inventory indicators: age (years), average height (m), average diameter (cm), density (1.0), and standing volume (m3·ha-1); from soil physical properties: humus horizon depth (cm), active root surface area (cm2), water permeability (mm·min-1), and soil hardness (kg·cm-2); from agrochemical properties – humus content (%), available phosphorus, potassium, and hydrolyzable nitrogen (mg per 100 g of soil). When using indicators with different absolute values, it was planned to convert them to relative values by calculating them based on identical control indicators. Eleven plots of pine stands aged 25 to 55 years with forest management characteristics that were as similar as possible or identical were selected. The studied Crimean pine stands grow in II and III stand site indexes under dry (C1) and fresh mixed broadleaf forests (C2) conditions, with timber productivity ranging from 72 to 334 m3·ha-1. They fulfill their designated erosion control function by halting the progression of erosion processes through the regulation of soil permeability and hardness, between which an inversely proportional relationship has been observed. They contribute to improving the properties of eroded soils by increasing the integral soil improvement index from 120% to 180%. Crimean pine stands have high overall health indices, which do not exceed 20%; at the same time, they differ from one another, exhibiting certain variations. The method of comprehensive assessment of stand health, based on the overall index, provides an unquestionable opportunity to take into account a wide range of indicators that influence the characteristics of their growth and development.

The role of forestry education in shaping professional competencies: students’ perspectives on forest functions and professional challenges

Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

For centuries, forests have played a key role in human life – as a source of raw materials, a recreational space, a refuge for biodiversity and a stabilising element of the climate. It was therefore necessary to examine the opinions of forestry students on the significance of forest functions, the role of forestry studies in shaping professional competences and preparing for professional practice in forest management, as well as to identify potential professional challenges.The analysed data came from a cross-sectional survey conducted among forestry students at the University of Agriculture in Krakow. The study was divided into two parts: the first concerned the perception of the forestry profession, and the second, analysed in this study, concerned the role of academic education in shaping the professional competences of future foresters and their concerns related to professional practice in the forestry sector.The research concept integrated theoretical approaches from forestry and the social sciences. The concept of forest multifunctionality and ecosystem services was combined with theories of social capital and the professional role, which enabled a multidimensional analysis of students’ attitudes and expectations. This approach allowed future foresters to be treated not only as professionals responsible for forest management and stewardship, but also as social actors functioning in a complex field of ecological, economic and social relations.The results showed high ratings for the social and protective functions of forests. Respondents pointed to potential professional challenges, including the involvement of foresters in politically driven communication activities and unclear employment criteria. Students highly rated the transfer of specialist knowledge about the functioning of forest ecosystems, but noted shortcomings the development of interpersonal, communication and stakeholder-engagement competences. These results provide a basis for further empirical research and may support the development and improvement of forestry education programmes.

Structural and functional analysis of forest stands in the Kremenets Botanical Garden (Ukraine): peculiarities of natural regeneration and rare species protection

Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The Kremenets Botanical Garden, located in the Ternopil region, covers 200 hectares and serves as an important nature reserve in Ukraine. It is divided into four zones: exposition (59.2%), scientific (25.1%), protected (10.6%), and administrative (5.1%). The exposition zone showcases the natural diversity of the Botanical garden, while also fulfilling educational and recreational functions. The scientific zone is dedicated to research and development, providing a space for scientific activities. The protected zone is designated for the preservation of natural ecosystems, ensuring their conservation. The administrative zone supports the operational functions of the Botanical Garden.The Botanical Garden’s forests are represented by three different types. The fresh fertile hornbeam-oak forest type covers 68.0% of the area and forms the core of the garden’s forest ecosystems. The fresh, relatively fertile hornbeamoak-pine forest type accounts for 17.8%, while the dry, relatively fertile forest type is the least represented, covering just 0.5%. Natural regeneration of European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) was studied on nine temporary sample plots, with additional planting recommended for areas with insufficient natural regeneration. The observed regeneration was determined to be viable, indicating favourable growth conditions.The soil cover is diverse, consisting of sandy loam (47.5%), light loamy (35.0%), clay (10.0%), and sandy (5.0%) soils, along with mine rock (2.5%). Sandy loam and light loamy soils offer the best conditions for plant growth, while degraded and sandy areas require reclamation to improve their suitability for vegetation.The Kremenets Botanical Garden is home to 12 plant species listed in the Red Data Book of Ukraine and 17 regionally rare species. It also hosts three rare plant communities: Festuceta pallentis Host, Carex humilis Leyss., and Querceta roboris L., dominated by Hedera helix L., which play an essential role in maintaining biodiversity. This multifunctional garden is a key center for conservation, research and recreation.

The age of mature Abies alba Mill. trees in the Białowieża Forest and the onset of their seed production

Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Scattered groups of Abies alba Mill. of various ages occur in the Polish part of the Białowieża Forest; however, the true age of the mature stands remains uncertain. The aim of this study was to determine the actual age of a mature silver fir population (subcompartment 498 Ci) of unknown origin and to estimate the onset of seed production. Because age estimation based solely on tree size is unreliable in shade-tolerant species, we applied an integrated approach combining dendrochronological analysis with empirical age–height data derived from natural regeneration. Increment cores were collected from 29 trees as close as possible to the root collar (8–52 cm above ground level). The time required for trees to reach the sampling height was reconstructed using growth data obtained from 92 seedlings and saplings. The results indicate that the median reconstructed year of establishment was 1928, corresponding to an estimated age of 98 years in 2026. An indirect estimate of the age at which seed production began, based on the oldest regeneration individuals recorded, was 61 years. These findings provide preliminary evidence that the environmental conditions of the Białowieża Forest are conducive to the growth and reproduction of silver fir.

Using edaphic parameters to validate forest site conditions on the plots of Ukrainian National Forest Inventory

Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

National Forest Inventories (NFIs) provide essential information for sustainable forest management and reporting on forest resources and carbon stocks. In Ukraine, the NFI system was launched in 2021 and includes a soil (edaphic) module designed to characterize site conditions. However, data from the first measurement cycle revealed several methodological limitations, including restricted soil pit depth and a predominant reliance on vegetation-based site classification (phytoindication). Integrating measurable soil indicators can improve the reliability of site assessment and strengthen quality assurance within the NFI system.This study analyzes primary NFI data collected during the 2021–2023 field campaigns from a subset of 878 plots located in the Polissia and Forest-Steppe ecological zones of Ukraine. Soil profiles were described morphologically, including identification of genetic horizons and measurement of their thickness. Soil texture was assessed using the Kachinsky field method. The analysis focused on key edaphic indicators, humus type and soil texture, to support cross-validation of site classification within the NFI framework.The selected edaphic indicators proved useful for cross-validation of forest site classification. Their inclusion enables the development of a multi-level data quality control system and improves the consistency of site classification in the Ukrainian NFI.The study proposes a rule-based ecological QA/QC framework that combines edaphic indicators with expert assessment of soil profile photographs to improve the reliability of forest site classification within the Ukrainian NFI.

Coleopterous predators in the zones of Gomilshanski lisy National Nature Park with different management regimes

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The purpose of this research was to assess the species composition and biodiversity of predatory beetles collected in Gomilshanski lisy National Nature Park, depending on management regimes and anthropogenic loading. Four window traps were placed in each of the five groups of sample plots: clear felling, selective sanitary felling, stationary recreation, regulated recreation, and protected zone. The dominance of each predator species (relative D), frequency of occurrence (F), the Synthetic index (Q), the Shannon Diversity Index (H), and the Sörensen-Czekanowski index (Csc) were evaluated. A total of 36 species of predatory beetles from 24 genera and 10 families were caught. Predatory species richness was the highest in the protected zone and the lowest in the clear felling plot. In the pooled sample of predatory beetles, two species (Cl. mutillarius and P. flavicornis) are dominant (5.6%), eight species (22.2%) are subdominant, nine species (25%) are recedents, and 17 species (47.2%) are subrecedents. The greatest dissimilarity by frequency of predatory beetle occurrence (F) was found between the sample plot of clear felling and the rest of the sample plots and zones, while the synthetic index (Q) confirmed the greatest dissimilarity between the protected zone and the rest of the sample plots and zones. The data obtained will help predict possible negative consequences for biodiversity and forest health and take preventive measures.

Producing high-quality container-grown Scots pine seedlings: the role of substrate composition and plant growth regulators

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Effective cultivation of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) planting material with a closed-root system largely depends on the optimal substrate composition, which provides favourable conditions for seed germination and seedling growth. This study presents the results of analysing the impact of different substrate modifications on seed germination, seedling condition, seedling height growth and root system development. The research covered five substrate variants: 3 two-component substrates (bark:peat in ratios of 2:1, 1:1 and 1:2) and 2 three-component substrates (bark:peat:forest soil 1:1:1; bark:peat:sawdust compost 1:1:1). It was found that the first seedlings emerged 15 days after sowing in all experimental variants, and the average germination rate was 69.75%. The best germination and germination energy were observed in the substrate dominated by peat (1:2). The seedlings grown in substrates with sawdust compost and a balanced component ratio showed the best biometric performance overall. Seedling height growth depended on the substrate composition: the highest values (5.5 cm) were recorded in variants with a higher content of peat and sawdust compost, whereas compacted forest soil slowed down their growth. Spring inventory showed that the average seedling height was observed in substrate 3 (with the highest peat content) and substrate 5 (which included sawdust compost). The study evaluates the effects of plant growth regulators Stimpo, Epin Extra, Humat Ultra and Megafol on plant morphophysiological parameters. The application of these biostimulants enhanced growth processes, increased tolerance to abiotic stress factors and improved adaptive responses. Epin Extra demonstrated a pronounced anti-stress effect, Humat Ultra stimulated root system development and nutrient uptake, Megafol intensified metabolic activity under stress conditions, while Stimpo promoted seed germination and early plant growth. The combined use of these regulators resulted in improved plant productivity and viability. The use of growth regulators significantly increased the biometric parameters of seedlings, particularly root collar diameter and biomass. The highest efficacy was observed for Megafol (p < 0.01), while Stimpo and Humate Ultra also resulted in significant improvements in these parameters. Epin Extra demonstrated a moderate but statistically significant effect (p < 0.05). The results obtained indicate the advisability of using Megafol and Stimpo to intensify the growth processes of seedlings. The most effective growing media for Scots pine seedlings are a two-component bark–peat mixture (1:2) and a three-component bark–peat–sawdust mixture (1:1:1), which yield the highest germination rates and the best biometric indicators. Other options, particularly those incorporating forest soil, proved to be less effective.

Lichen thalli as substrates and microhabitats for slime moulds (Myxomycetes)

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Lichen thalli and plasmodial slime moulds often co-occur in cryptogam-rich microsites on bark, decaying wood and soil, where they form part of complex forest microhabitat systems. This evidence-led synthesis compiles published observations of myxomycete sporocarps developing on lichen thalli, together with evidence for trophic stages within thallus microzones and environmental studies describing lichen–myxomycete co-occurrence under shared abiotic drivers. The assembled evidence indicates that lichen thalli repeatedly act as microtopographically heterogeneous fruiting substrates, potentially linked to surface roughness and associated microbial films, and can harbour myxomycete trophic stages, whereas direct evidence of feeding on lichen symbionts is absent. Licea parasitica (Zukal) G.W. Martin is the most consistently documented taxon on lichen thalli and is also recorded on bare bark, indicating a facultative, substrate-flexible association. When lichen substrates are grouped ecologically, L. parasitica is reported predominantly from corticolous (epiphytic) lichen systems, whereas terricolous (epigeic) lichens are associated with recurrent records of other myxomycete taxa. Treating lichen thalli as myxomycete microhabitats can improve interpretation of cryptogam-associated forest biodiversity and guide targeted tests of trophic-stage activity within thallus microzones.

Participatory mapping of cultural ecosystem services in the Warsaw metropolitan area

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Although the concept of ecosystem services is not new, its importance has increased significantly in recent years, and references to ecosystem services are now included in key strategic and planning documents both in Poland and at the European level. These documents emphasize, among other aspects, the need for spatial mapping of ecosystem service distribution. Ecosystem services have also been incorporated into forest management plans within the State Forests National Forest Holding. At the same time, public interest in forest-related ecosystem services has grown noticeably.This study employed an online questionnaire combined with a Public Participation Geographic Information Systems (PPGIS) module to identify the factors determining the choice of forest areas in the Warsaw metropolitan area for recreational purposes, as well as the factors discouraging forest visits. In addition, the study aimed to assess the importance of ecosystem services provided by forests and to spatially map not only locations preferred for recreation and those avoided by respondents, but also areas considered valuable in terms of cultural ecosystem services (CES).The findings indicate that regulating and CES are considered the most important by residents of the Warsaw metropolitan area. Recreational choices are primarily influenced by accessibility and the opportunity to find peace and quiet, while the most significant factors discouraging forest visits include noise and vandalism. The PPGIS module enabled detailed spatial mapping of recreational areas, avoided locations, and the distribution of ecosystem services valued by respondents.Given the non-representative nature of the sample, this study should be regarded as a pilot investigation. Nevertheless, the applied methodology offers valuable potential for use in public consultation processes and participatory planning in forest and landscape management.

Validation of a biomass based model for assessing forest ecosystem services: a case study of Feofania Park

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The study presents estimates of the dynamics of the urban forest stand ecosystem services in Feofania Park, based on forest live biomass assessment models and data from forest management planning. The study aimed to compare the model approach for forest live biomass assessment with permanent sample plot data and to investigate the possibility of forest ecosystem service assessment based on forest biomass models. The fieldwork was conducted on four permanent sample plots in urban forests, established in 2016 and 2017. The age range of the research stands from 80 to 180 years. Each sample plot determined the species composition of forest stands and the status of trees by measuring and surveying in kind, with a division into live and dead biomass. The peculiarities of the redistribution of trees by vitality status in 2023 changed to some extent due to an increase in the number of dead trees (snags). It has been established that the highest current increment of live biomass is observed on the permanent sample plot with a structurally complex stand, featuring 180–190-year-old oak trees in the first canopy layer. For each permanent sample plot, a comparison of biomass indicators for the tree stand was made using fieldwork and model-based data. The relative deviation in the overall estimate of forest live biomass using the model approach ranged from -39% to -2% when comparing estimates from permanent sample plots collected during fieldwork from 2016 (2017) to 2023. This suggests the potential applicability of using a model to estimate the biomass of each urban forest plot in the park. The assessment of the biomass of the park's forest stands served as the basis for calculating the volumes of carbon storage, produced oxygen, and accumulated energy.

The condition of forest soils in central and northern Poland in the decade 2007–2017 based on selected indicators

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The aim of the study was to assess the condition of forest soils in central and northern Poland in 2007–2017. The study areas were located in eight forest districts, namely, Białowieża, Chojnów, Łąck, Gdańsk, Krotoszyn, Krucz, Strzałowo and Suwałki. In 2007 and 2017, soil samples were taken from the organic layer (O) and five mineral layers (M): 0–5, 5–10, 10–20, 20–40 and 40–80 cm deep. Physicochemical analyses of the soil were carried out on the appropriately prepared samples (i.e., drying, sieving, grinding), that is, granulometric composition, pHCaCl2 in a solution of 0.01 mol CaCl2·dm-3, organic carbon content (TOC), total nitrogen content (TN), exchangeable acidity (Hw) and the content of basic and acidic cations in a solution of 0.1 M barium chloride at pH 8.1. In addition, the sum of cations (SBC), the cation exchange capacity (CEC), the saturation of the basic complex (BS%) and the sum of basic cations (SBC : Al) were determined. The soils analysed were characterised by an extreme and strong acid reaction (pHCaCl2: 2.75–4.60). Regardless of time, the highest TOC content in the closed layer was found in the Krotoszyn forest area under the Quercus robur L. on the Stagnosol soil and the lowest in the Strzałowo forest area under the Pinus sylvestris L. stands on the Halpc Luvisol soil. The TOC content in the mineral layers was low regardless of the location and year of investigation and was similar in the analysed soils.Most of the forest soils analysed were poor sites and soils from sands with low alkaline cation content (SBC<5.0), sorption capacity (CEC) and saturation of the alkali-sorption complex (BS < 20%).

Reconstructing the origin of silver fir (Abies alba Mill.) stands in the Białowieża Forest

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The Białowieża Forest, one of the largest and best-preserved forest complexes in Europe, is located outside the continuous distribution range of silver fir (Abies alba). The area hosts several artificial stands of this species, including old stands that are in good condition. The aim of this study was to reconstruct their origin and establishment conditions. In the Polish part of the Białowieża Forest, 13 sites with the presence of silver fir were identified and described, including 9 old stands. These sites share three key features: anthropogenic origin, generally minimal human intervention in their growth and development after establishment, and location outside the continuous distribution range of the species. Analyses of dendrometric traits showed that many trees reach parameters comparable to those observed under optimal conditions within the natural distribution range of silver fir. Historical reconstruction suggests that the stands most likely originated from direct seeding on clear-cuts created during intensive logging by The Century European Timber Corporation Ltd. in the interwar period (1924–1929). Based on silvicultural, historical and ecological arguments, it appears highly unlikely that silver fir planting stock was produced and used at that time in the Białowieża Forest. The hypothesis proposed here assumes that silver fir seeds were sown under the developing canopy of secondary-succession pioneer species. The surviving old trees and their progeny show a high degree of adaptation to the continental climate of north-eastern Poland. The origin of these stands should be further verified by comparative genetic studies of silver fir populations in Europe and Poland.

Decrease in forest above-ground biomass in war-damaged forests of Ukraine: A case study using GEDI, Sentinel-2 data, and the GEE platform

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Armed conflict leads to significant disturbances in forest ecosystems, resulting in structural degradation and biomass loss. In eastern Ukraine, forested areas have been directly affected by military activities since 2014, with intensified disturbances after 2022. This study assesses changes in forest Above-Ground Biomass (AGB) in selected war-affected areas of Luhansk Oblast using spaceborne LiDAR data from the Global Ecosystem Dynamics Investigation (GEDI) and multispectral imagery from Sentinel-2 processed within the Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform. GEDI Level 4A biomass products were used as reference AGB data to train regression models based on Sentinel-2 spectral bands and vegetation indices. Separate models were developed for three forest polygons (Kuzmyne, Metolkine and Bobrove test sites). The results show strong relationships between GEDI reference AGB and Sentinel-based predictions (R2 = 0.715 for Kuzmyne, 0.704 for Metolkine and 0.720 for Bobrove test sites). The models demonstrate consistent biomass underestimation in high-AGB stands, suggesting structural simplification in damaged forests. The study confirms that combining GEDI and Sentinel-2 data provides a reliable approach for biomass monitoring in conflict-affected regions where field measurements are unavailable. Further analysis showed that average Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) values decreased from 0.67–0.71 in 2020 to 0.22–0.24 in 2022 and remained at similarly low levels (approximately 0.24) until 2025 at the Kuzmyne and Metolkine test sites. In contrast, a decrease in NDVI was already detected in 2021 at the Bobrove test site. This early decrease is associated with the shelling of the region by Russian-backed armed groups since late 2020, which caused large-scale forest fires and extensive destruction of vegetation. Overall, this study highlights the significant potential of integrating GEDI and Sentinel-2 data to reliably estimate forest AGB under extreme conditions caused by military conflict. The proposed approach is a valuable tool for monitoring and assessing forest ecosystem degradation in hard-to-reach or high-risk regions and can contribute to planning for forest ecosystem recovery after war.

Dynamics of surface fuel accumulation in Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) forests of green zones of the cities of Kyiv and Kharkiv

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The aim of this study was to investigate the dynamics of forest fuel accumulation in relation to fire hazard in the green zones forests of Kyiv and Kharkiv cities. The research employed analytical–calculative, monitoring and generalising methods to assess the formation and accumulation of forest fuels and to provide practical recommendations.The results identified key factors influencing the accumulation of surface forest fuels within these urban forests. In Kyiv’s green zone, pine stands growing under the most widespread forest site conditions (B2–3: fresh and moist subor types), the total litter load (in absolutely dry condition) ranged from 8.1 to 46.0 t/ha, with litter layer thickness varying between 2.1 and 8.1 cm. In Kharkiv’s green zone forests, significantly higher fuel loads were recorded, ranging from 15.6 t/ha in young pine stands to 60.0 t/ha in mature and overmature forests.A litter stock modelling approach was applied to estimate the accumulation of forest litter and duff in the periurban forests of Kyiv and Kharkiv using the conversion coefficients (Rv) derived from empirical stand parameters (DBH, density and age). The models demonstrated high accuracy (R2 = 0.75–0.98) and confirmed that the highest surface fuel accumulation in pine stands occurs at 60–75 years.It was confirmed that pine stands in Kharkiv’s green zones growing under fresh subor conditions accumulate 22.8% more surface fuels. The difference in normalised mean values was statistically significant (tst = –1.89, tcrit = 1.69; p = 0.03).

Silvicultural and economic aspects of forest regeneration in the Eastern Polissya Region of Ukraine

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The scope of forest regeneration (including reforestation and afforestation) in Eastern Polissya of Ukraine has been defined. Forest regeneration is carried out primarily through artificial methods. Based on an analysis of the growth of experimental forest stands, key indicators for types of forest stands have been developed: main and accompanying tree species, mixing schemes, initial density, planting technology, and the frequency and number of tending operations. Successful natural regeneration of valuable species on areas after clear cutting occurs in seed years following prior soil mineralization (on 50–60% of the plot area). According to comparative analysis, measures to promote natural regeneration of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) on fresh areas after clear cutting are 1.8 times more effective than creating artificial stands.

The economic aspect of establishing fire breaks along public roads and reducing the losses caused by forest fires

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

One of the most important forest management activities in fire protection is the establishment and maintenance of different types of fire belts depending on the threat, including the numerous belts along public roads. The role of fire belts is primarily to limit the possibility of fire spread and to facilitate firefighting by the emergency services. The article presents the results of an economic analysis of the maintenance of fire belts along public roads by the State Forests and clearing of the area of forest materials that pose a particular fire risk. The economic calculation of the establishment and maintenance of fire belts and clearing along public roads to reduce the damage caused by fires is based on analyses of the following: the occurrence of forest fires along public roads, damage caused by forest fires along public roads, the costs of establishing and maintaining type A belts and clearing along public roads. The analyses presented have shown that maintaining type A fire belts and 30-m-wide fire belts with cleared terrain in accordance with current regulations is not rational and justified. The current practice of creating these fire belts does not bring the expected effects in terms of a significant improvement in forest fire safety, which makes it necessary to reflect on their justification and adaptation to actual needs. The losses caused by fires along roads amounted to PLN 814 thousand, while the costs of carrying out these activities totalled PLN 35.84 million. If we compare the losses caused by fires along roads with the costs of establishing and maintaining fire belts and cleaning up, we can see that the losses are more than 40 times lower than the costs incurred, which raises serious doubts about the rationality of the activities carried out and their effective impact on increasing fire safety in forest areas.

Botanical and mycological research of the Bielański Forest (Central Poland) during the twentieth century and current times

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

The Bielański Forest is one of the most valuable remnants of natural vegetation in Warsaw, being the subject of research since the 18th century. This article presents the research on vegetation cover and mycobiota of the Forest, conducted in the 20th century and to the present. The studies are discussed chronologically and divided by the biota of fungi and lichens, the flora of bryophytes and vascular plants, plant communities, veteran trees, and the issues of protecting these resources. The scope and completeness of the research results are discussed, particularly in the context of the forest’s conservation status. Significant differences in the completeness of data were found between the individual groups of living organisms discussed. The identification of the vascular flora and plant communities is relatively complete, both in terms of historical and contemporary data. The assessment of the forest’s conservation based on these components shows that it is a site that has undergone profound and unfavorable changes. The forest’s flora includes common species, while the rare species are only locally rare. The identification of the bryophyte resources is similar to that of the vascular flora. Additionally, this group includes species considered as relics of primeval forests. The current state of knowledge about mycobiota resources is unsatisfactory. It requires compilation, analysis, and publication of existing data. A thorough assessment of the contemporary fungal biota would be useful, allowing for the identification of its changes in relation to historical data. It is also worthwhile to continue the relatively recent research on the lichen biota. The state of the fungal and lichen biota, despite existing deficiencies, currently gives an image of the relatively best condition of the Forest. The knowledge of the ancient trees and deadwood in the Bielański Forest is quite good, but it is worth supplementing it with, for example, maps showing their distribution. In future mycobiota studies, it would also be worthwhile to pay special attention to epiphytic and saproxylic microhabitats. The Bielański Forest also offers opportunities for historical research. Based on the species found here over nearly three centuries, it is possible to describe the forest’s transformations resulting from the conditions in which it functioned.

The impact of participation in Forestry Students’ Scientific Association of Warsaw University of Life Sciences on professional and personal development of students

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

This study aims to evaluate the impact of students participation in the Forestry Students’ Scientific Association (FSSA) at the Warsaw University of Life Sciences on their professional and personal development. The research was based on empirical data collected through an anonymous online survey of 28 questions conducted among former and current members of the Association. A total of 263 correctly completed questionnaires were qualified for analysis. The data were processed using statistical methods, including the chi-squared test to assess the significance of differences in multiple-choice responses, and the Mann–Whitney test to examine the relationship between the level of respondents’ engagement and the outcomes of their development. The results indicate that participation in FSSA significantly fosters professional and soft skills development. The most frequently reported outcomes included fieldwork skills (86%), teamwork abilities (78%), specialized forestry knowledge (66%), and public speaking skills (62%). Furthermore, 82.5% of respondents considered the competencies acquired through the Association useful in their professional work, with 44.9% rating them as highly significant. Nearly half of the respondents declared that the experience gained FSSA was an asset during their recruitment processes. A strong relationship was observed between the level of involvement in the Association activities and both the scope of competencies acquired and their applicability in professional practice (p ≤ 0.001). Activities identified as having the greatest developmental impact included participation in field research and scientific conferences, as well as preparing presentations and research projects. The findings confirm that activities in FSSA integrate theoretical knowledge with research and social practice, thereby implementing the concept of learning by doing. Participation in activities of the Association contributes to multidimensional professional and personal growth, enhancing graduates’ competitiveness in the labor market. These results highlight the need to support students’ scientific associations as an effective component of academic education and as an example of innovative teaching methods applicable at other levels of education.

Controlled burning as an active method of protecting heathlands – methodology of the procedure

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Heathlands in Poland are valuable natural habitats, which have been included in the Natura 2000 network, among others. These communities often occurred on military training grounds. Abandonment of their utilisation and the lack of factors inhibiting the succession of woody vegetation have led to the overgrowth of heathlands, their degradation and loss of biodiversity. Active nature conservation is essential for the preservation of these ecosystems. Traditional methods, such as mowing or grazing, are often inadequate or too expensive. Controlled burning can be used as an effective and cost-efficient alternative to stop succession processes and preserve valuable heathlands. To organise burning properly, the right time for burning must be chosen, taking into account both meteorological and natural conditions. During the burning operations, safety and adequate equipment and qualifications of those carrying out and coordinating the activities are crucial. Environmental monitoring carried out after the burning operations showed a high capacity for vegetative regeneration of heather and no negative impact of the treatment on the biodiversity of flora and fauna associated with the heath habitat.

Do private forest owners in Poland recognise Natura 2000 areas?

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Private forest owners in Poland, like those in many other European Union countries, should be viewed as a diverse social group. Due to the size and diversity of private forest owners, one of the most effective ways to understand and categorise them is by examining their values, opinions, views and intentions. The analysis aimed to investigate differences between three respondent groups, distinguished by their level of knowledge about Natura 2000 sites. The research was conducted using the Computer-Assisted Personal Interview method, employing a standardised interview questionnaire that included both content questions and respondent metrics. Three levels of knowledge among respondents were identified: those who said they knew about Natura 2000 sites and correctly defined them (labelled as ‘experts’ – 397 respondents, 39.6%), those who knew what Natura 2000 sites were but did not confirm their knowledge with the correct definition (labelled as ‘amateurs’ – 224 respondents, 22.4%) and those who admitted they did not know what Natura 2000 sites were (labelled as ‘laypeople’ – 382 respondents, 38.0%). Forest owners can be considered a homogeneous group regardless of their knowledge of Natura 2000 sites, and awareness campaigns or financial support can be directed the same way across all groups. Irrespective of how forest owners were categorised, no differences were found in their approaches to types of services, forest functions, time spent on training topics or the tax amounts allocated. Controlling forest pests remains the most critical area of support for private forest owners.