Untersuchungen über die Entwicklung der Verjüngung und des Verbisses im Vivian-Sturmgebiet Pfäfers | Examination of the developments of regeneration and browsing in areas around Pfäfers damaged by hurricane Vivian

Abstract

The forests around Pfäfers (SG) were very badly damaged by hurricane Vivian in 1990. Three of the affected areas were chosen and since 1994 surveys have been carried out in order to monitor reforestation. Investigations on regeneration and browsing in upper and high montane forests regarding silver fir/beech and silver fir/spruce forests show that the regeneration which took place before the hurricane is decisive for the consequent development of the areas hit by the storm. Even ten years after the storm, very little new natural seeding is to be found. It would be advantageous for silvicultural planning and monitoring if browsing intensity and the accompanying limit values of Eiberle and Nigg were taken more into account. In this way existing risks could be assessed and preventional measures taken.