Future of the Franconian Forest: Experts discuss bark beetle challenges!

Future of the Franconian Forest: Experts discuss bark beetle challenges!

A sensitive topic is up for discussion at the second meeting of the “Discussion on Banz”: the future of the Franconian Forest. Around 100 participants, including experts from the forestry and wood industry, met at the invitation of the Upper Franconian Forestry Association to talk about the serious consequences of bark beetle infestation. The event was led by Kirstin Zesewitz from Bayerischer Rundfunk. The situation is serious for many forest owners in the Franconian Forest because the bark beetle has destroyed significant parts of the tree population and left bare areas that are visible from afar.

Markus Wich from the Kronach-Rothenkirchen Forest Owners Association in particular reported a sharp increase in logging. This year, several hundred thousand young trees are planned to be planted to counteract the bare sight. But despite the serious situation, there is a cautious improvement as the number of bark beetles is declining, wood prices remain stable and there are attractive subsidies. This allows the forest farmers in the Franconian Forest to breathe a sigh of relief.

The wood industry in transition

In 2025, the timber industry is experiencing surprising shortages after years of oversupply. This brings with it both challenges and opportunities. Jens Haertel from AELF Coburg-Kulmbach and Daniel Kraus from the Natural Forest Management Working Group are optimistic. Their view is clear: the findings from the Franconian Forest could be the key to a more diverse, stable and colorful forest.

The drama of what happened is also underlined by the increasing amount of damaged wood in other regions of Bavaria. Despite the high rainfall, the amount of damaged wood has increased. This presents forestry with major challenges. It is important to understand the mechanisms that favor the bark beetle and its living conditions. Climate change, high temperatures and drought play a crucial role in the proliferation of the pest, which can devastate large areas within a short period of time.

A rethink in forestry

Fighting bark beetles requires fundamental changes in forestry, less monocultures and more mixed crops. These are considered to be more resistant to mass proliferation of beetles. An example of this is the Bavarian Forest National Park, where the bark beetle is viewed as part of a natural process. There, the population's acceptance of forest protection has improved significantly over the years. The park stands out due to increasing visitor numbers and brings regional prosperity.

Overall, it is clear that a rethink is urgently needed in order to meet the challenges of climate change and the bark beetle problem. A more diverse approach could not only benefit the forest, but also ensure long-term stable entertainment value for the timber industry.

At a time when inspirational thoughts and perspectives are needed, it might be helpful to remember the words of great thinkers. As Oscar Wilde once said: "Be yourself; everyone else is already taken." These words also invite us to think about how we can remain agile as a society and in dealing with our nature.