Active and targeted measures
Many species thrive with the basic retention we leave, but there are also species that have more specific habitat requirements. Some of them do not require untouched forests to thrive; on the contrary, they depend on active and targeted measures to ensure their habitats remain intact
The need for targeted measures for some species is linked to the forest's history. In the past, fires and other disturbances were common in the forest, which led the flora and fauna to adapt accordingly. Conducting prescribed burnings and, in other ways, mimicking fires and other natural disturbances are therefore central to our work in creating suitable habitats for various species.
See examples of active measures
Prescribed burnings
Fires have historically been the most impactful disturbance on forests. Fires shaped the entire forest landscape and all the species that live there. Today, we extinguish fires efficiently, which completely changes the conditions. By conducting prescribed forest burning, we create habitats for species that benefit from or depend on fire-affected forests for their survival. It is one of the most effective conservation measures we can implement in our forests.
Veteranization – basal burning and barking
As a complement to burning entire forest areas, SCA has also started to veteranize pine trees through so-called basal burning. This involves fire-scarring individual pine trees.
The burns cause damage to the pine tree that resembles the injuries trees endured in the past when forests burned more frequently. The damage slows the tree's growth and makes the wood harder and impregnated with resin. Many species are adapted to this specific type of wood. SCA also performs veteranization of pines through barking, which involves removing portions of the bark.
Creating dead wood
Creating dead wood is also an important measure for many species. When fires shaped the forests, there was significantly more dead wood, and many species have become dependent on it. To support them, we leave dead trees, both those that are still standing and those that have fallen. We also create new dead wood by making high stumps, cutting trees three meters above the ground.
It is essential to have a large variety of dead wood, as many species have specific requirements for the dead wood they use.
Creating deciduous forests
We are working to create more forests dominated by deciduous trees, both by restoring old deciduous forests and by creating new ones. This includes measures such as harvesting coniferous forests, which benefits broadleaf trees by providing them with more light and space. This is particularly positive for birdlife.
In older deciduous forests where we know the white-backed woodpecker exists, we have ensured the preservation of many dead and dying broadleaf trees. These trees serve as habitats for the white-back's favorite food: a group of beetles within the genus longhorn beetles. The brighter and warmer environment created when spruces are removed also leads to an increase in available food.
Protect watercourses and wetlands
We work both to protect and restore watercourses and to rewet wetlands, either independently or in collaboration with others. Wetlands, such as mires, bogs, and fens, act as nature's own filter and play an important role in the landscape. Rewetted wetlands regain their filtering function and become a valuable habitat for species such as wading birds, amphibians, insects, and flora that thrive in or near water. Rewetting also benefits the climate.
Special efforts for rare species
Some endangered and rare species require special efforts to survive and increase in number. We implement these measures in our Conservation parks and in other areas where we have identified species in need of support. Birds, fungi, plants and mosses are some of the species we have helped through our actions.
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Species Commitment and habitats
Our forests have a variety of flora and fauna. To make our nature conservation measures even more effective we preserve, develop and recreate the habitats that are important for species that are disadvantaged by forestry. This will help us achieve an even greater precision in our work with biodiversity.
Indicators for biodiversity
Dead wood and old forest are a few examples of indicators for biodiversity in the forest. This means they represent important factors to ensure a diversity of species. SCA tracks the development of five key indicators in our holdings over time and the result has been very positive. The different indicators have risen by about 25-90% in a relatively short period.
Landscapes for endangered species
SCA have designated ten areas as Action Plan landscapes, due to their high concentration of species that are particularly sensitive and require specific management for their habitat. By promoting these species, we can promote several other that also benefit from our measurements.