Fighting oak fell victim to beetles - future through new trees!

Fighting oak fell victim to beetles - future through new trees!

In Wiesentheid, the felling of an oak tree that is over 200 years old is causing a stir. The tree, which has witnessed numerous generations, had to be cut down due to a beetle infestation that was discovered during inspections in July 2024. The decision to fell the tree was made in coordination with the Kitzingen Forestry Association (FBG). “We have learned from the experience of previous cases in which oak trees could no longer be marketed because they were severely infested,” explained a spokesman for the FBG. This is intended to minimize the risk of similar damage occurring again.

After it was felled, the tree was taken to Iphofen for a valuable timber submission, where it was identified as the most expensive trunk for the Güterwald Consortium Wiesentheid. The proceeds from this sale will not only help protect the remaining young wood stock, but will also be invested in reforestation. The plan is to purchase and plant around 2,000 climate-resistant tree seedlings next winter in order to create a healthy forest and recreational area for the next generations.

Pests affect trees

The beetle that doomed this proud tree belongs to the family of shipyard beetles. These insects, especially Lymexylon navale, often attack freshly felled wood as well as damaged or dead tree parts. “Larvae of the beetle can nest in the wooden structures for up to two years without any externally visible damage,” the FBG knows. This highlights the need for regular tree inspections in the forests to prevent greater damage.

To combat other pests, it is important to ensure appropriate storage of the wood. Infected material should be removed immediately to prevent spread. The topic of wood management is therefore becoming increasingly relevant, partly due to the increasing interest in sustainable tree species and forms of cultivation.

Sustainable future

In the short term, attention is not only paid to the oldest and most valuable trees, but also to the future of the local forests. The Blu Kiri tree NORDMAX21 shows what sustainable reforestation can look like. This fast-growing tree species can absorb up to four times as much CO2 as conventional oaks and is also a real eye-catcher with pretty purple bell flowers. It grows towards the ceiling in the first few years and becomes a stable tree that offers many environmental benefits.

“With projects like this, we want to set a positive example and promote local biodiversity,” says a person responsible for the forestry association. It remains to be hoped that such measures will bear fruit and that the forests in the region will become more resilient to pests and climate change in the future.

The exciting developments in the Wiesentheid forest remain to be observed; The combination of tradition and modernity could ensure the sustainable preservation of our forests. Not only does this benefit nature, but also people who want to lead an environmentally conscious lifestyle.