Forests Of Ukraine Research Articles

Impact and consequences of military actions for nature protection areas and objects of the nature reserve fund within the boundaries of the State Enterprise “Forests of Ukraine” lands

The study analyzed data on the negative impact of military actions on the objects of the nature reserve fund under the management of the State Enterprise “Forests of Ukraine” within the forest offices as of March 1, 2024. The impact of military actions on Nature Reserve Fund (NRF) objects was analyzed according to ten factors. It was established that out of the 9 Forest offices of the State Enterprise “Forests of Ukraine”, the negative impact of military operations on NRF objects was noted in the territory of the Southern, Eastern, Slobozhansky, Northern and Capital forest offices.45 objects of the Nature Reserve Fund, which are located on the lands of forestry purpose, and are in permanent use of the State Enterprise “Forests of Ukraine” with a total area of 36,441.0 hectares, were negatively affected by the military operations. Most often, the territories of the objects of the nature reserve fund were negatively affected by military operations as a result of damage by aerial bombardment and shelling of long-range artillery, missiles, UAVs (37 objects) and the basing of military units (40 objects). The 19 NRF objects were affected by three or more negative factors of military operations, which included explosions of various ammunition, rockets and mines, most often accompanied by bullets and fragments of ammunition that exploded, as well as the fall of downed aircraft and missiles. The construction of engineering fortifications and the uncontrolled felling of trees often accompanied the movement of military equipment.The amount of damage to the objects of the nature reserve fund was calculated for 6 objects of the NRF on the territory of the Southern and Eastern forest offices and totals UAH 817,272.44. For 39 NRF objects, the amount of damages has not yet been calculated due to limited access and the impossibility of conducting relevant surveys and examinations and remains an urgent task.In order to eliminate the consequences of the negative impact of military operations on the NRF objects, it is necessary to calculate the damage caused to the environment, carry out demining. An important task is to conduct an inspection of the protected areas for the presence of explosive objects, as well as carry out the necessary sanitary felling to prevent the mass reproduction of pests on the dead and weakened trees damaged by fires.

Analysis and forecasting of the scale and impact of forest fires on ecosystems of Ukraine

Forest fires are one of the most significant environmental problems that have a major impact on biodiversity and climate conditions. The purpose of the study was to investigate the impact of military operations on the ground cover in the area of the Bekhy forestry, which was disturbed by fire. It was revealed that for the period 2022-2023, 15 forest fires were recorded on the territory of the Korosten forest hunting enterprise of the state enterprise “Forests of Ukraine”, while the total area covered by fires was 15.13 ha. Overall, the number of fires increased from 5 to 10, but the total area covered by fires decreased from 12.1 to 3.03 ha. At the site of fires in 2022, the pH level increased to lower horizons, with the highest values at microhills (7.55) and microdepressions (7.35). There was a slight increase in the organic carbon content in the upper humus horizon of soils (0.42% on microhills and 0.46% on microdepressions). Bekhy forestry suffered a large forest fire in May 2023, which covered an area of 1.2 ha. The fire hazard assessment of each quarter was carried out separately. In the 50th and 51st compartments, Scots pine was the most fire-prone type of plantings. The 2023 fire site also showed an increase in pH in the lower horizons, with the highest values in microhills (7.35) and microdepressions (7.55). The 2023 fire site showed a decrease in organic carbon content compared to the background sites, with minimal values in the lower parts of the soil profile (0.33% on microdepressions and 0.38% on microhills). The results of the study can be used to develop and implement environmental measures and programmes aimed at restoring forests damaged by fire

Elms (Ulmus L.) in the Branch “Myrhorod Forestry” of the State Specialized Forest Enterprise “Forests of Ukraine”

Introduction Elms are spread in forests, landscaping settlements, and protective forest belts. After several waves of elm mortality from Dutch elm disease (DED) in the 20th century, individual populations recovered or formed resistant hybrids. However, epiphytoties of bacterial and fungal diseases sometimes develop, particularly due to pathogen vectoring by bark beetles. In Ukraine, the spread of elms and their damage by different causes are relatively poorly investigated. This research aimed to discover the features of Ulmus sp. distribution by stand origin, age, and forest site condition in the forest fund of the Branch “Myrhorod Forestry”. Materials and Methods The data as of 2010 and 2017 on the forest fund of enterprises belonging to the Branch “Myrhorod Forestry” of the State Specialized Forest Enterprise “Forests of Ukraine” were selected from the database of Ukrainian State Forest Management Planning Association “Ukrderzhlisproekt” using SQL-query and converted to the *.xls files. Area distribution by types of forest site conditions was assessed following the Ukrainian school of forest typology. Such distributions for the entire area covered with forest vegetation, for subcompartments with elms in the stand composition, and with elms as the dominant species were compared for various elm species and stand origins, using c2-test. The percentages of stand areas of different origins and elm species in 2010 and 2017 were compared using z-test in the two proportions comparisons. The data for subcompartments with various elms as the dominant species and as a part of stands composition have been analyzed by 10-year age classes for different origins (natural and planted). The proportion of the stand area of each 10-year age class was assessed for each set of subcompartments. Then the proportion of the stands’ area, which survives up to a certain age, was evaluated. Results and Conclusions In the Branch “Myrhorod forestry”, an area of natural stands with Ulmus sp. as the dominant species for 2010–2017, and the proportion of U. minor has significantly increased. The most dramatic decrease in the survival rate of all elm species of natural stands occurred in the VI age class and planted stands in the V age class. Respective natural and planted stands were formed in the 1960s and 1970s when the peak of DED occurred in many regions. In the Branch “Myrhorod Forestry”, U. minor prefers moist fertile forest site conditions. U. laevis grows mainly in moist forest site conditions, U. pumila occurs in dry to wet habitats, U. glabra is present only in natural stands and absent in plantations. As part of stand composition, the same elm species grow in a wider range of forest site conditions than elms as the dominant species. 2 Figs., 8 Tables, 31 Refs.

Systematic and structural analysis of forest mycobiota with the participation of Abies alba Mill. in the Pokutsko-Bukovyna Carpathians

The value and uniqueness of forest ecosystems are determined by their species diversity and biotic resistance to negative environmental impacts. The aim of the study is to determine the species composition, systematic position, trophic specialization, as well as the occurrence and abundance of forest mycobiota with Abies alba in the Pokutsko-Bukovyna Carpathians. The study was conducted in 2019-2023 within the forests of the branches “Kutske Forestry”, “Ivano-Frankivsk Forestry” and “Beregomet Forestry” of the State Specialized Enterprise “Forests of Ukraine”, as well as the forests of the National Nature Park “Vyzhnytskyi” and the National Nature Park “Hutsulshchyna”. Classical mycological identification methods were used in the study. Information from the interactive databases Index Fungorum, MycoBank, and World of Fungi of Ukraine was used to clarify the current systematic position and current names of taxa. It was found that the consortial relationships of the fungal biota of the Pokutsko-Bukovyna Carpathians forests are most closely related to the woody plants Picea abies, Abies alba, and Fagus sylvatica. During the mycological expedition, 54 species of representatives of the kingdom Fungi were identified, 81.5% of which belong to the order Basidiomycota and 18.5% to the order Ascomycota. It was found that the most numerous is the order Polyporales, and the least numerous are the orders Corticiales, Gomphales, Phallales, Pucciniales and Tremellales. It is shown that, according to trophic specialization, representatives of the studied mycobiota of the Pokutsko-Bukovyna Carpathians belong to the following groups: xylotrophic facultative saprotroph, xylotrophic facultative pathogen, xylotrophic obligate saprotroph, obligate pathogen and aboveground saprotroph. It is noted that the most widely represented are saproxylytrophs, which generally develop on dead and fallen wood. Thus, the systemic and structural analysis of the fungal biota of the Pokutsko-Bukovyna Carpathians forests allows for assessing the biocenotic value of fungi as bioindicators of the current state of stands, as well as identifying reference and valuable areas characterized by high biodiversity

Social impact of destruction of urban forests in Ukraine and considerations for their future reconstruction

Urban trees and greenspaces are often damaged in military conflicts. This study examines the current extent of damage caused by war to urban trees and greenspaces in Ukraine, focusing on the consequences to the well-being of residents, and providing considerations for urban forest reconstruction. Urban trees produce a variety of benefits, including habitat for wildlife, reduction of energy use, improvement in physical and mental health of citizens, and an increased sense of community. Past research has shown the association of city trees with (a) lower incidence of under-weight newborns, (b) lower rates of death from cardiovascular disease, (c) reduced deaths during excessive heat events, and (d) improved psychological health. We estimate war-caused changes to urban green space in Ukraine using satellite-based indicators. Within seven cities in eastern Ukraine nearly destroyed by spring 2022, at least 13% of areas predominantly vegetated in 2021 had declined in greenness by 20% or more by the summers of 2022 and 2023. Finally, we briefly summarize five factors that should be considered when reconstruction of war-damaged urban forests and greenspaces is attempted. These include (1) the residents’ desire to have their original environment restored; (2) the unavailability of nursery stock for replanting immediately after the war; (3) the impacts of bombing on soil; (4) the importance of engaging local residents in replanting efforts; and (5) the psychological value of saving some damaged trees as survivors of the war.

Ulcerative tumour-like disease of white fir in the Pokuttia Carpathians

The current state of dark coniferous forests on Earth is a bio-indicator of global environmental change, in particular, the process of gradual degradation of tree species of the genera Pine, Spruce and Fir, due to the negative impact of anthropogenic activities, abiotic and biotic factors. The purpose of the study is to establish the symptoms, prevalence and harmfulness of the causative agent of ulcerative tumour-like disease on the shoots and trunks of white fir. The research was conducted on the territory of the forest fund of the Pokuttia Carpathians, in particular, within the branch Kutske forestry of the State Specialised Economic Enterprise “Forests of Ukraine” in the Kosivske forest enterprise. The study uses classical phytopathological and mycological methods, which are used to investigate the aetiology of the disease, analyse typical symptoms (starting from the early stages), and perform microscopy of the affected parts of fir. The symptoms, aetiology, and pathogenesis of white fir ulcer-like disease, which tends to spread, were investigated. A new name for the disease is substantiated, in particular, it is proposed to use the name “ulcerative tumour-like disease” of fir instead of the current name “cancer”. It is shown that a typical sign of infection is the development of tumours, which eventually transform into ulcers. It was found that the tumour-like type of lesion prevails on the undergrowth of fir, and on plants of the upper tiers – ulcerative. It is noted that a typical sign of ulcerative tumour-like disease of white fir is also the presence of pathologies such as “witches’ broom”. It is proposed to remove affected trees with typical signs of infection with ulcerative tumour-like disease to reduce the infectious background, especially during lighting and cleaning, since affected trees are not released from infection. Therefore, assessing the risk of infection of white fir trees with ulcerative tumour-like disease at the level of specific stands and ensuring an appropriate response to potential infection risks is an important part of sustainable forest management

Strategies and challenges of artificial forest reproduction in the forest-steppe zone: Experience of the Korsun-Shevchenkivskyi forest enterprise branch

One of the key problems that arise in the reproduction of forests in the paradigm of sustainable development of the forest industry is the volume of reforestation, which requires its correlation. This problem requires attention, since effective afforestation and reforestation determine the stability of the ecosystem and the importance of forest resources for the conservation of biodiversity in the forest sector. The purpose of the study is to investigate the features of artificial forest reproduction in the conditions of the forest-steppe climatic and geographical zone. The methodological basis for organising observations included field survey of planting material plots, monitoring the state of crops on the area, conducting analytical substantiation of progressive experience, and evaluating the final results obtained. The study was conducted in the Korsun-Shevchenkivskyi forest enterprise branch of the state enterprise “Forests of Ukraine”. The dynamics of annual volumes of artificial forest reproduction, considering the predominant tree species during 2012-2021, is presented. Additionally, the advantages and disadvantages of transplanting of main and related species in the presented forest conditions were analysed. During this period, there is a fluctuation in the volume of artificial forest reproduction in the forest districts under study. With regard to the transplanting of main and related species, it is worth noting its advantages in ensuring biodiversity and rapid forest regeneration. However, there are disadvantages, such as the possibility of losing genetic diversity and considering local conditions for effective seating. As a result, the study helped to determine the trends and features of forest reproduction in these forest districts, and to note the advantages and disadvantages of transplanting of the main and related breeds in various forest-growing conditions. The enterprise is actively implementing measures for forest reproduction, focusing on intensive planting of forest crops. This is achieved by placing plantations in areas that have been subjected to continuous sanitary and reforestation logging. One of the key tasks of the enterprise is to ensure high productivity of forest crops in the region. For this purpose, significant amounts of reforestation work are carried out, including systematic soil preparation and careful selection of optimal species for specific conditions. Considering the recommendations of forest management, an integrated approach to reforestation is reflected, which ensures sustainable and productive ecosystems in the region. The developed strategies can serve as an important tool for introducing innovations in the field of forestry

ЕКОНОМІЧНА ЕФЕКТИВНІСТЬ В СИСТЕМІ АНТИКРИЗОВОГО УПРАВЛІННЯ ЛІСОВИМ ГОСПОДАРСТВОМ УКРАЇНИ

The presented material reveals the economic aspects of the effectiveness of the forest industry in the context of the formation of the anticrisis management system. Taking into account the fact that for the second year in a row a single specialized enterprise has been operating in the state forestry sector of Ukraine, the above summaries of its activities should be in demand in the expert and civil circles, as well as among foresterspractitioners. The author analyzed the financial results of the State Enterprise "Forests of Ukraine" for 2023, which have a positive tendency to increase - the company received a net profit in the amount of UAH 2.87 billion with a net income from the sale of products of UAH 23.06 billion, which is much higher than similar performance indicators for 2022 (during the period when more than 150 legal entities operated on the state forestry market). At the same time, it was noted that the largest share in the products sold by the enterprise is occupied by round lumber, firewood for industrial and non-industrial use (83.3%), which indicates an increase in felling volumes, compared to the same previous reporting period. The article presents the results of the analysis of the liquidity of the State Enterprise "Forests of Ukraine", which, despite the decrease in the coefficient of current and total liquidity, are approaching the normative value. That is, the indicator of business activity is increasing at the enterprise and its assets are more involved in financial and economic activity. At the same time, the author notes a negative decrease in the value of the ratio of provision of own current assets, which indicates a decline in the amount of own current assets for financing the total current assets of the enterprise. In general, in the context of ensuring the formation of the system of anti-crisis management of forestry in Ukraine, its reformation into a single legal entity contributed to increasing the profitability of the industry in the short term. The main directions of the formation of the system of anticrisis management of forestry in Ukraine are summarized.

ПРОБЛЕМИ ТА ПЕРСПЕКТИВИ САМОСІЙНИХ ЛІСІВ В КОНТЕКСТІ ЗБЕРЕЖЕННЯ ЛІСОВИХ НАСАДЖЕНЬ ПРИРОДНОГО ПОХОДЖЕННЯ

In the presented material, an attempt was made to generalize the existing regulatory and legislative basis of Ukraine regarding the increase of forest cover, protection and preservation of self-forested areas of state and communal ownership, as well as to form the main practical problems and prospects in their use. For this, the author considered the unique importance of self-seeding forests in the context of ensuring the ecological properties of forest plantations, in particular, carbon deposition and oxygen production; the scale of self-forested lands is determined; a quantitative assessment of the areas of self-seeded forests transferred to permanent forest use to the State Enterprise "Forests of Ukraine" from the united territorial communities is given, using the example of the Chernihiv region; the existing trend of exceeding the volume of emissions from the increase in arable land in Ukraine over the volume of absorption from forests, swamps, and steppes is noted. The article presents a number of negative trends regarding the increase in the volume of wood harvesting, including for military needs, which causes the felling of forest plantations of natural origin. The shortcomings of the existing legislative mechanisms regarding the lack of restrictions on the activities of agricultural producers on pastures, hayfields, coastal strips, floodplains and other carbon-rich ecosystems are indicated. Ways to increase the volume of sold wood for the national economy in the conditions of a full-scale invasion due to effective anti-corruption, restriction of wood exports and effective functioning of the State Environmental Inspection of Ukraine are presented. An analysis of the legislation of the European Union regarding mechanisms for the preservation and restoration of carbon-rich ecosystems, including the restoration of most drained peatlands, the introduction of restrictions on access to the EU market for agricultural products and wood, the production of which has led to deforestation, has been carried out, which should be a reference point for the state leadership in the declared European integration path of Ukraine's development.

Application of GIS technologies for accounting plus trees

Introduction 
 Nowadays, an important forest genetic resources (FGR) conservation activity is the systematization of information on gene pool conservation units in electronic databases. It should be noted, however, that the existing international databases mainly relate only to units represented by populations (stands), which are visualized as polygons on the map. As the scientists from the Department of New Information Technologies in URIFFM have implemented the website “Geoportal: Forests of Ukraine”, it became technically possible to add information on plus trees to its functionality and combine data on tree locations and their characteristics in a united electronic database.
 The study aimed to improve the organization of information on plus trees, their accounting, survey, and use as improvement units by applying free software (Python, JavaScript) and the PostgreSQL relational database with the PostGIS module.
 Materials and Methods
 In 2021, one of the work stages was to develop software and methodology for forming the Plus Trees database and to provide a user manual. In particular, a data schema was created to store both attribute and geographical information on tree improvement units in Ukraine. In addition, attribute and geographical information of forest inventory are used. The database of plus trees contains basic information from plus tree Passports or selection/inventory data from the reports.
 Results 
 The proposed database consists of several panels. The first panel contains elements for setting coordinates and entering plus tree numbers. The second panel is intended for selecting a species name of trees. The third panel of the data entry form contains mandatory attributes (total height of a plus tree and its diameter at a height of 1.3 m). The fourth panel contains other tree characteristics.
 During the testing of the developed database structure and the working out of the instruction, the information on plus trees in seven regions of Ukraine (Kharkiv, Poltava, Sumy, Dnipro, Zaporizhzhia, Luhansk, and Donetsk) was entered, which is about 25% of the country’s plus tree pool. In addition, the design of the web pages was finalized in parallel with the data entry.
 The developed software can be useful to both scientists and forest managers. Its use will simplify the search for plus trees in forest stands for their inventory, and survey, as well as in cases where it is necessary to collect seeds or cuttings for the seed orchards or progeny tests creation in forest enterprises or at forest seed centers. For scientists, it will provide an opportunity to systematize, analyze, and generalize information, in particular, to improve methodical approaches to the selection of the plus trees.
 Conclusions 
 A data schema was created to store both attribute and geographic information on forest tree species tree improvement units in Ukraine. The schema considers the complex structure of coordinated units and includes the developed algorithms for data verification which will allow the effective use of the proposed database for the plus tree accounting.
 8 Figs., 1 Table, 20 Refs.

Evaluation of pheromone traps for bark beetles and their predators in pine forests in the Kharkiv region

Introduction
 Pine stands of many regions have been affected by outbreaks of bark beetles with the dominance of Ips acuminatus (Gyllenhal, 1827) and Ips sexdentatus (B?rner, 1776). In many countries, pheromone traps are produced and used to monitor and suppress native and alien bark beetles. In Ukraine, pheromone traps for catching bark beetles are not produced. The effectiveness of various trap designs and the number of lures for pine bark beetles have not been previously studied in Ukraine. In 2023, within the framework of the FAO project TCP/RER/3801, State Specialized Forest Protection Enterprise ‘Kharkivlisozahyst’ received three types of pheromone traps produced by the Spanish company Sanidad agricola econex s.l. and pheromones intended for the capture of I. acuminatus and I. sexdentatus.
 The study aimed to compare the species composition and abundance of bark beetles and their predators by captures in the different pheromone trap-lure combinations.
 Materials and Methods
 The research was carried out in June – August 2023 in pure mature pine stands in the Vasishcheve subunit (State Specialized Forest Enterprise “Forests of Ukraine”, Branch “Zhovtneve Forestry”). Three types of pheromone traps were placed randomly in six locations of a homogeneous stand, the distance between which was about 50 meters. Type A traps (Funnel) contain 8 funnels, Type B traps are Theyson, and Type C traps are Crosstrap® mini. Depending on the experimental design, the traps contained blades with pheromones of Ips acuminatus or Ips sexdentatus. Blades for I. acuminatus contained 2 and 3 dispensers (commercial names 4C and 5C, respectively), and blades for I. sexdentatus contained 3 and 4 dispensers (commercial names 4C and 5C, respectively). In control treatments, respective traps (A, B, and C) were left empty (without blades). Trapping experiments were carried out from 20 June through 8 August 2023. Trapped insects were collected every 7 days, dried, and sorted. Bark beetles, longhorn beetles, and predators were identified at the species level, and some other insect groups at the family level at least.
 Results and Conclusions
 Five bark beetle species (Curculionidae: Scolytinae), five longhorn beetles (Cerambycidae), five predator species from Histeridae, Cleridae, Nitidulidae, Monotomidae, and Tenebrionidae, as well as several species of Staphylinidae, Carabidae, and Elateridae were captured in traps of three types (A – Funnel; B – Theyson; C – Crosstrap® mini) with pheromones of Ips acuminatus and I. sexdentatus. Target species – Ips acuminatus and I. sexdentatus – accounted for 51% and 31% of all captured beetles, respectively. Their numbers, seasonal dynamics, and proportions depended on the trap type, pheromone, and blade. The highest number of I. acuminatus beetles was captured in Crosstrap® mini traps (C type), and that of I. sexdentatus was found in Theyson traps (type B). An increase in dispenser number provides more captures of I. acuminatus and has no significant influence on captures of I. sexdentatus. The number of Th. formicarius was the lowest in trap B (Theyson) and the highest in trap С (Crosstrap® mini). The number of Th. formicarius captured in traps A and C with the pheromone of I. acuminatus was higher than in the traps with the pheromone of I. sexdentatus. Differences in the captured Th. formicarius beetles in the traps with more dispensers with the pheromone of I. acuminatus are significant, whereas in the traps with the pheromone of I. sexdentatus they are nonsignificant.
 12 Figs., 14 Refs.

Bird’s Consortium Ties with Parthenocissus inserta (A. Kern.) Fritsch., 1922 on the Example of Forest Parks and City Phytocenoses in Kyiv City (Ukraine)

Abstract Parthenocissus inserta (A. Kern.) Fritsch. adapts to living in the forests of Ukraine. The influence of P. inserta on native species and its consortial ties with representatives of the secondary ranges biota, in particular birds, has not been studied. The purpose of this study is to make an inventory of the consorts’ ornithocomplexes of P. inserta, to give a comparative analysis of topic and trophic consorts as a result of an introduced species’ participation in the transformation of habitat’s conditions. The material was collected from 2019 to 2022 in forest parks and urban green spaces of the Kyiv city. The bird distribution was determined by the standard method of counting birds at points. Exactly 12.2 ha of P. inserta plantations were surveyed. Trophic consortium relationships of P. inserta with 32 bird species and topic ones with six bird species were revealed. The species composition of consorts was higher in forest fragments than in urban plantations (26 and 21 species, respectively). In the ornithocomplexes of P. inserta consorts in forest biotopes, there was a smaller pressure of dominant species and a more evenly ranked distribution of species by abundance than in urbanized ones. The similarity of the consort’s species composition in urbanized and natural biotopes according to the Sorensen index was 0.64, in consorts 1 and 2 of the consortium concentres was 0.32, and in topic and trophic consorts was 0.27. According to the status of stay in the region, trophic consorts of P. inserta were mainly resident birds – 20 species (62.50%), wintering birds – six species (18.75%), and birds migrating through the region – six species of birds (18.75%). Among the topic consorts, there were four species of sedentary species and two species arriving for nesting. Principal component analysis revealed the largest positive relationship between P. inserta planting area and the number of consort bird species nesting (0.999) and feeding (0.889) on girlish vine plants. We predict that in the future, P. inserta will be more strongly woven into the matter cycle of the secondary range ecosystems. The study of consortial relationships between invasive plants and birds, taking into account the knowledge of the ecological characteristics of consort birds, will make it possible to more effectively prevent the spread of plants into natural biotopes.

The current status and future prospects for the production of ornamental planting materials in forestry nurseries in Ukraine

The reduced demand for seedlings has created the conditions for the introduction of new profitable production areas, such as the cultivation of ornamental seedlings of woody plants. Therefore, there is a need to explore new ways to increase the profitability of growing ornamental plants. The purpose of this study was to investigate and estimate the capacity and condition of the forestry industry’s planting base, identify its main problems, available reserves, and outline the main ways to improve its efficiency under self-financing conditions. The methodological framework was based on general scientific methods of analysis, synthesis, and generalisation, which allowed for the investigation of the reporting materials of forestry enterprises and statistical data of the State Agency of Forest Resources.The study characterised the state of seedling production of forestry enterprises and trends in the dynamics of its production capacities during the period of the State Target Programme “Forests of Ukraine” for 2010-2015 (the last 4 years of 2012-2015) and after its completion (2016-2019). The study indicated the favourable conditions and expediency of increasing the production of ornamental planting material. The prospects for the wider introduction of the production of ornamental planting material in forestry nurseries were identified. The ways of modernisation of ornamental seedling production of forestry enterprises and increase of its profitability were proposed and substantiated. It was emphasised that the increase in the production of ornamental planting material in nurseries and the implementation of the recommended measures will not only increase the flow of extra-budgetary funds, but will also contribute to the modernisation of the process of growing forest seedlings, including those with a closed root system, as well as improve their quality. The results obtained will help accelerate a scientifically sound solution of problems related to modernisation and efficiency in the production of ornamental planting materials in nurseries. This, in turn, will help attract additional financial resources for forestry enterprises

Scots pine stands in the Left-Bank Forest-Steppe of Ukraine

Abstract The article presents the results of the research on the features of Pinus sylvestris L. condition and productivity in forest stands of the Left-Bank Forest-Steppe of Ukraine (in Kharkiv and Sumy regions) for 2006–2021. The study was carried out using the ‘Forests of Ukraine’ Database as of 01.01.2017, and the results of field research at 30 temporary sample plots (TSP), 3 permanent sample plots (PSP) (in 2006–2018), and 13 monitoring plots (2009–2021). Generally accepted methods and new standards were used. The dynamics of forestry and evaluation indicators of Scots pine stands at sample plots were analyzed and compared with high-productive Scots pine stands. The characteristics of natural regeneration are given. It was revealed that the age structure of pine stands is not optimal: there is an excess of middle-aged stand areas. Changes in the structure and development of managed Scots pine stands with respect to changing environmental conditions were observed for 2009–2021. Studied forest stands showed a tendency for negative changes in stand structural characteristics related to regeneration and growth. Drought mainly in combination with even medium anthropogenic impact can further worsen the health status of Scots pine stands in lowland areas of the Left-Bank Forest-Steppe of Ukraine. Thus, the formulation of forest management measures to mitigate the impact of these stress factors is needed.

Strategic guidelines for the development of forest industry of Ukraine in the post-war period

This research presents the peculiarities of the formation of a modern strategy for the development of forest industry in Ukraine. It was determined that the implementation of strategic management in the postwar period should be based on ensuring the balance of forest use. In order to increase the role of forest resources in the share of national wealth, it is necessary to move to such a model of forest use, which would ensure the proper profit of forest enterprises in a unified relationship, minimize the destructive impact on forest resources, and also ensure the appropriate level of environmental and economic security for the state. A comprehensive scientific assessment of the institutional aspects of economic relations in the context of the existing vector and conditions of development of the forestry industry of Ukraine, including the strategic guidelines approved by the State Forest Management Strategy until 2035, was carried out. The modern features of forest use caused by military operations in Ukraine are revealed. And the algorithm of their further development at different levels of the economic hierarchy is also substantiated. Conceptual approaches to the post-war management of forest resources of Ukraine in the conditions of climatic changes observed in recent decades, as well as in accordance with modern climate-oriented strategies in the world, approved at the summit in Glasgow in 2021, are outlined. Attention is paid to ways of counteracting the destructive impact of climate change on the forestry complex, as well as to the problematic issues of reforestation technologies, afforestation and forest care in order to adapt them to modern climate changes. It has been proven that the main task of state policy in the field of forest resource management is to ensure effective and proper protection, balanced use and formation of forest reproduction mechanisms, as well as the availability of appropriate tools. It was also noted that at the local levels, the implementation of the approved strategy for the development of forestry requires a comprehensive approach to individual areas of innovative activity in the forestry industry. It was found that the appropriate level of implementation of the set of specified measures creates favorable conditions for the effective implementation of the provisions of the approved normative legal acts regarding the use and reproduction of forests in Ukraine.

Shyshatska sand arena: History, current state, and prospects of afforestation

Non-afforested lands in Ukraine are the primary instrument for increasing the forest cover of the territory The issue of sand afforestation is relevant in the context of climate change. Treeless sand arenas are a source of dust storms, and deflationary processes that occur lead to negative consequences that are quite difficult to correct in the future. The purpose of this study was to summarise the experience and achievements of the branch “Myrhorod Forest Enterprise” of the State Specialised Commercial Enterprise “Forests of Ukraine” in afforestation of mobile sands in the conditions of the Forest-Steppe of Ukraine. Forest stands are established using one-year-old Scots pine seedlings on sandy soils to achieve the set goal. Testing is conducted using planting material grown under various conditions – in the open ground and in a greenhouse. Extended periods for establishing forest stands beyond agrotechnical terms are examined during the late spring and summer periods using rejuvenated planting material with partially damaged root systems. The current state of plantings within the Shyshatska sand arena is analysed. It is established that in general, the territory of the arena is represented by the entire range of types of forest conditions ranging from bors to mixed broad-leaved forests. The prevailing types of forest-growing conditions are given, among which dry and fresh forests are distinguished. Subors and su-deciduous forests are represented on small areas. Deciduous types of conditions are located mainly in the drained areas of the Psel River floodplain. The main forest-forming species on the territory of the arena is Scots pine, which occupies more than 60% of the territory. Also in the lowlands and floodplains of the Psel River stands of Black Alder and Common Oak grow. In the conditions of bors, Scots pine grows in III – Va bonitet class. In richer conditions, subor and su-deciduous forest cultures have better indicators and have a class I-II bonitet, but there are not many of them. The results of this study can be used in the afforestation of sandy lands in the Forest-Steppe of Ukraine and adjacent regions

IMPROVEMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES POLICY OF THE BRANCH «RADEKHIV FORESTRY AND HUNTING» STATE ENTERPRISE «FORESTS OF UKRAINE»

The article presents the author’s interpretation of the concept of «human resources (HR) management», «HR policy», «labour potential». The article describes the basic components of HR policy. The author substantiates the important requirements for labor incentives, defines the concepts of «motive», «need», «interest», and «situational factors». The key elements and basic functions of motivation are investigated, and the relationship between need, motive, behavior (action), goal and result is established. The reasons for the emergence of the conflict situations are studied, modern approaches to resolving and preventing their occurrence in the future are proposed. The important prerequisites for the formation of an effective enterprise’s HR policy are described, including determination of the type and analysis of the available resources necessary for the implementation. The peculiarities of human resources management of the case study, specifics of the enterprise’s activities, opportunities and challenges of the reforming the forestry industry are presented. The European experience of forestry management, in particular, the successful combination and interaction between state authorities and business structures to achieve high performance and efficiency indicators, is studied. The organizational structure of the forestry enterprise, the human resources management system, the dynamics of the quantitative and qualitative composition of the employees of the branch «Radekhiv Forestry and Hunting» of the State Specialized Economic Enterprise «Forests of Ukraine» are investigated. The staffing table of the enterprise, job responsibilities of the engineering and technical staff, and the labour remuneration system are described. The mechanism of the optimization of the number of employees and expansion of the labour potential of the forestry enterprise is developed, proposals are substantiated and practical recommendations are given.

Influence of winter storage methods of acorns on the development and growth processes of common oak

The economic value and biological stability of common oak stands (Quercus robur L.), grown from acorns is substantially higher in comparison with plantings of undergrowth origin. Therefore, the cultivation of acorn oak stands is relevant and promising, especially where there is no natural restoration of oak. The purpose of the study was the improvement of seed production technology and cultivation of high-quality planting material of common oak seeds with various methods of winter storage to expand the area of oak forests. In the course of the study, forest-cultural (determination of quality indicators of acorns, planting material, and forest cultures), biometric (determination of growth indicators and mass of planting material), and classical statistical research methods were used. The study was conducted on the territory of the forest fund of the Hertsaevsky state special Forestry and Kuzmynsky Forestry branches of “Chernivtsi Forestry” of the state specialised economic enterprise “Forests of Ukraine”. It is shown that each of the winter storing methods of acorns of common oak has its own advantages and disadvantages, which are more or less manifested in different methods of cultivation. As a result of comparing the influence of different cultivation methods on the development of common oak plants grown from seeds stored in a trench method, it was determined that the best growth parameters of the aboveground part of plants were observed when using the larding method. However, the least intensive development of the root system was observed when growing oak with a closed root system. It was found that the weighted average biometric indicators of the growth processes of common oak plants grown from seeds that were stored in tap water were the highest when growing acorns by larding. It is proved that the experimental plants of common oak grown from seeds that were stored in a cellar with sand lagged behind in the development of the aboveground part when grown by a landing method. It was established that the root system developed worse when growing plants with an open root system. The proposed acorn storage technology can be applied to improve the efficiency and quality of reproduction of oak stands by forestry enterprises in Ukraine

Integrated approach to land management with self-sown forests in Ukraine

Protection and recovery of land natural ecosystems is a relevant task of sustainable development. Natural recovery of forests is an important instrument to solve the problem. The article describes the integrated approach to management of land use with self-sown forests, which have become a wide-spread phenomenon on the agricultural lands in Polissia and Forest-Steppe zones of the western Ukraine. The authors conducted an interview, which demonstrated people’s attitude to self-afforestation of lands. The idea of protecting self-sown forests was supported by one third of the respondents. Among those, who wish to possess a land plot with forests, the main share is represented by people of the age category of 21-40 years old. The authors substantiate the potential value of ecosystem services, which can be supplied by self-sown forests by introducing different practices. A focus is made on the ecosystem benefits from protection of self-sown forests, which cannot be expressed in money terms, but are of environmental and social value for the community. A model of integrated management of agricultural lands with self-sown forests was developed. It is suggested to use planning as an instrument, which involves assessment of the potential of land and other resources, to determine alternatives of land use, considering economic and social conditions of the territory development and landscape characteristics. Ukraine should develop a policy, establish institutes and approve procedures intended to protect self-sown forests. In the future, it will reduce the area of ploughed land and improve biodiversity of the territory.

ЛІСОВЕ ГОСПОДАРСТВО ЯК ПЕРЕДУМОВА ПІДВИЩЕННЯ КОНКУРЕНТОСПРОМОЖНОСТІ ДЕРЕВООБРОБНОГО КОМПЛЕКСУ

The presented article analyzes the financial and economic indicators of the functioning of the newly created SE "Forests of Ukraine", which have a tendency to improve. The author also noted that the domestic wood market has an artificially formed surplus, which does not contribute to the development of the woodworking complex for all market participants. This is evidenced by the inflated wood prices of the State Enterprise "Forests of Ukraine", excessive balances in branch warehouses, the use of re-sorting in corruption schemes, etc. The provided material confirms the unsatisfactory level of personnel policy in the management of the State Enterprise "Forests of Ukraine" (its structural subdivisions), in particular, regarding the elimination of all existing corruption schemes, as well as the involvement of creative business managers. The problem of underutilization of the volume of forest stands to meet the needs of the market, especially of coniferous origin, has been studied. A significant increase in wood harvesting without harming future generations and a constant increase in the level of use of the annual growth of forest stands is substantiated. The author noted that at the legislative level, there is no strategic mission of the State Enterprise "Forests of Ukraine" to ensure state policy, the goal of which is to increase the added value of the national forestry and forestry clusters. There is an imbalance between the goal declared by the state leadership, in particular, the development of the competitiveness of the domestic forestry complex on foreign markets, on the one hand, and the actual activity of the State Enterprise "Forests of Ukraine" in terms of not providing equal conditions for the activities of enterprises in the woodworking industry, on the other. In addition, the justification of experts regarding a certain threat of monopolization of the woodworking market in certain regional business entities with sufficiently large production capacities is given. Ways to ensure equal conditions for the development of business entities in the woodworking industry are proposed, which can serve as a road map for the entry of Ukrainian woodworkers into the world market.