Database

In clear-cutting, leave retention tree groups near cultural heritage objects

Habitat	Function	Type of work
Forest	Living environment	Clear-cutting

In order to maintain biodiversity and ensure ecological coherence, forest management shall maintain the structural elements of habitats (e.g. trees from the previous felling period, old-growth trees and stumps, flatwoods, hardwoods, hollow trees, trees with burn marks, shrub species and species of trees that are not very common in the forest), also taking into account their potential impact on forest health, timber quality, ecosystem condition and human safety.

Description of the action

If the clear-cut area contains cultural heritage objects (e.g., historical cross trees, stone fences, sacrificial stones) or microstructures (e.g., sinkholes, springs) or large debris nests (diameter greater than 40 cm) or buffer strips of open landscapes/natural water bodies, then leave a group of retention trees near them.

Why?

If a logging site contains special features, retention trees and groups should be left near them, even if some higher-quality retention trees are available elsewhere. This helps preserve special objects (e.g., historical cross trees) longer or provides better shelter for birds (e.g., trees with large debris nests) or improved microclimatic conditions (e.g., sinkholes).