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The concept and test of
sustainable forest
management using the
ecosystem services
approach
Deliverable D.T.3.1.3
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow 1
IMPRINT
Project and funding
Links4Soils (ASP399); EU Interreg Alpine Space
WP, Task and Deliverable
WPT3 (D.T. 3.1.3)
Lead
Slovenia Forest Service, Večna pot 2, 1000 Ljubljana
Office of the Tyrolean Government, Forest Planning Department, Bürgerstrasse 36, 6020 Innsbruck,
Austria
Editors
Dr. Tina Simončič, Elena Cocuzza
Authors
PART I: dr. Tina Simončič1, dr. Aleš Poljanec1, dr. Andreja Nève Repe1
PART II: Elena Cocuzza2 , Elisabeth Schaber3, Alois Simon2
1Slovenia Forest Service 2 Office of the Tyrolean Provincial Government, 3 University of Innsbruck
Date
March 2020
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
2 Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow
SUMMARY
This deliverable provides a comprehensive overview of the concept and test of sustainable forest
management using the ecosystem services approach. It is divided into two parts, which present
individual closed chapters.
Part I is a theoretical overview of the two concepts and provides a theoretical framework of how
ecosystem services are integrated into sustainable forest management. It uses the example of regional
forest management plans in Slovenia to characterise how ecosystem services can be provided by
forest management in everyday practice.
Part II is a case study showing the results of the Soil Function Assessment and the Soil Forest
Management categorisation for the selected soil pits investigated in the Tyrolean Case Study in the
forest area of Prägraten. The results show how different soil types contribute to the provision of
ecosystem services and in doing so provide valuable and easily understandable information on how
to implement sustainable forest management.
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow 3
TABLE OF CONTENT
Imprint ________________________________________________________________________________________ 1
Summary ______________________________________________________________________________________ 2
PART I _________________________________________________________________________________________ 4
Summary ______________________________________________________________________________________ 5
1 INTRODUCTION ___________________________________________________________________________ 6
1.1 Concept of sustainable forest management _____________________________________________ 6
1.2 Concept of ecosystem services ___________________________________________________________ 6
2 The INTEGRATION of ECOSYSTEM SERVICES in sustainable FOREST MANAGEMENT 8
2.1 General framework _______________________________________________________________________ 8
2.2 Integrating ecosystem services in sustainable forest management: example from regional forest
management plans, Slovenia _________________________________________________________________ 10
3 ConclusionS ______________________________________________________________________________ 24
4 References ________________________________________________________________________________ 24
5 List of FIGURES ___________________________________________________________________________ 26
6 List of TABLES ____________________________________________________________________________ 26
PART II _______________________________________________________________________________________ 27
7 References ________________________________________________________________________________ 45
8 List of tables ______________________________________________________________________________ 45
9 List of figures ____________________________________________________________________________ 46
About the Links4Soils project ______________________________________________________________ 47
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
4 Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow
PART I
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow 5
SUMMARY
According to FAO, the concept of sustainable forest management means managing forests
sustainably by optimising their benefits including timber and contributions to food security, to meet
society’s needs in a way that conserves and maintains forest ecosystems for the benefit of present
and future generations. The sustainable forest management concept recognises the need for a
provision of multiple ecosystem services from forests using different tools such as the definition of
multiple management objectives (which is the main task of multi-objective forest management),
setting standards of forest management, defining allocations for different ES and measures to achieve
them. How these services are actually considered in forest management is difficult to assess. The
concept of ecosystem services may act as a tool to test whether and in what way forest management
practices consider and provide the services desired by the society. We used the example of the
regional forest management plans in Slovenia to assess 1) which ecosystem services (ES) are taken
into consideration in SFM, 2) which criteria are used to define the allocations with important ES, 3)
which measures are used to provide them and 4) which indicators are used to assess the
successfulness of FM in providing desired ES.
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
6 Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow
1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 The concept of sustainable forest management
According to FAO, the concept of sustainable forest management (SFM) means managing forests in
a sustainable manner by optimising their benefits including timber and contributions to food security,
to meet the needs of society in a way that conserves and maintains forest ecosystems for the benefit
of present and future generations. It is "the stewardship and use of forests and forest lands in a way,
and at a rate, that maintains their biodiversity, productivity, regeneration capacity, vitality and their
potential to fulfil, now and in the future, relevant ecological, economic and social functions, at local,
national, and global levels, and that does not cause damage to other ecosystems." (MCPFE, 1993).
One of the main visions of SFM is to provide the ecological, societal and economic functions of the
forests to the society. In more detail, it considers and includes several criteria such as forest biological
diversity, forest health and vitality, protective functions of forest resources, productive
functions of forests, socio-economic functions, legal, policy and institutional frameworks and
extent of forest resources (FAO, 2003).
1.2 The concept of ecosystem services
The ecosystem services (ES) are the products of functioning ecosystems that benefit people. The
Millennium Ecosystem Assessment (MEA, 2005) classifies ES as provisioning, regulating, cultural
and supporting. Provisioning ES include food, fresh water, timber and fibre for direct human use.
Regulating ES provide benefits such as flood and disease control, water purification, climate
stabilisation and crop pollination. Cultural ES include recreational, spiritual, aesthetic and social values.
Supporting ES are the underlying processes that maintain the conditions for life and include nutrient
cycling, soil formation and primary production.
FAO provides even more detailed classification of ES (Table 1).
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow 7
Table 1: FAO Classification of Ecosystem Services and the list of ES addressed in forest management
plans
Group of ES Type of ES** ES explicitly addressed in FMP**
Provisioning
services
Food Timber production
Raw materials Non-timber products
Fresh water Game
Medicinal resources Provision of drinking water
Regulating services Local climate air quality Climate regulation
Carbon sequestration and storage Protection against natural hazards
Moderation of extreme events Protection of forest soil and sites
Waste-water treatment
Erosion prevention and maintenance of soil
fertility
Pollination
Biological control
Regulation of water flow
Supporting services Habitat for species Preservation of biotic diversity Maintenance of genetic diversity
Cultural services Recreation and mental and physical health Recreation
Tourism Tourism
Aesthetics, inspiration for culture, art and design Aesthetics
Spiritual experience and a sense of place Education
Research, Hygienic-health
Protection of cultural heritage
Protection of natural heritage
Defence
* http://www.fao.org/ecosystem-services-biodiversity/background/en/
**example of classification of forest functions in Slovenia, source ZG, 1993; Regulations…, 2010;
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
8 Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow
2 THE INTEGRATION OF ECOSYSTEM SERVICES IN SUSTAINABLE FOREST MANAGEMENT
2.1 General framework
In Europe, a general framework to secure the provision of multiple services from forest ecosystems in
the context of SFM was defined by Forest Europe, formerly the Ministerial Conference for the
Protection of Forests in Europe (MCPFE, 2002). Sustainable forest management has been a basic
principle for forest management in a variety of European countries. It is legally accepted in national
legislations (forestry acts) and further developed in forest programmes and forest plans.
SFM concept recognises the need for a provision of multiple ecosystem services from forests using
different tools; the definition of multiple management objectives (which is the main task of multi-
objective forest management, a stewardship concept of the SFP approach), setting standards of forest
management, defining allocations for different ES and measures to achieve them (Figure 1).
Figure 1: The concept of sustainable and multi-objective forest management and ecosystem services
(see also Bončina et al., 2019 for the detailed illustration of the integration of forest functions/
ecosystem services into forest management)
General forest
management
standards
supporting ES
Conditioned by
soil type/
vulnerability, site
type etc.
Sustainable forest
management
Forest management
objectives:
TIMBER PRODUCTION
CLIMATE REGULATION
HABITAT PROTECTION
SOIL PROTECTION
RECREATION
EDUCATION
Additional
management
measures
supporting ES
Spatially defined –
allocations for ES:
Recreational areas
Habitat protection areas
Watershed areas
Protection forests
Etc.
Indicators of
success
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow 9
The general standards to support ES vary greatly among the European countries. In some countries,
clear-cutting is still one of the ways to practice silviculture and to regenerate forests, providing
completely different set of ES compared to countries where close-to-nature forest management is
practised (Simončič et al., 2015). In Slovenia, general standards to support ES include uneven-aged
silvicultural systems, promotion of mixed forests, promotion of native species and species adaptable
to emission, promotion of natural regeneration, prompt salvage cutting after damage/disturbances,
management of forest edges, stability of forest stands (vertical and horizontal diversity), and
prohibition of clear-cutting (ZG, 1993).
The definition of management objectives is the basis for including different kinds of ES into the
planning stages. Types of management objectives define which ecosystem services are important and
will be integrated into sustainable forest management by a set of guidelines, directions and measures
(Bončina et al., 2019). Management objectives may include (Forest management plan for Forest
management unit Pokljuka, 2005):
- Production of wood for market
- Protection of water sources and drinking water
- Nature conservation
- Recreation
- Sport and competition
- Tourism
- Employment
- Protection of forest sites and stands
- Production of non-wood forest products
- A place for education and research
- Aesthetic appearance of landscape
- Hunting as an economic and recreational activity
- Forest biomass for energetic purposes
Spatially defined allocations for ES. Areas with special importance for selected ES are determined
by forest planning procedures or by other legal regulations (Simončič et al., 2013). Common
allocations in a variety of European countries include protection forests, areas for production
functions, areas for nature conservation including forests within protected areas, areas for recreation
such as urban and peri-urban forests and similar (Simončič et al., 2015). These allocations are a binding
framework for defining forest development objectives and guidelines and should be considered when
setting detailed measures at the level of operational planning (Bončina et al., 2019).
Allocations for certain ES are defined in national legislations for each country. Detailed criteria that
define on which forest area certain ES are to be promoted (see example in Table 2) are prescribed.
Additional measures. A general standard in many European countries already provides multiple ES.
However, in many cases management regime must be adopted which means additional measures that
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
10 Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow
are not carried out in other forest lands are applied (e.g. Wagner et al., 2013). Table 2 provides a
comprehensive overview of guidelines / measures that support certain ES on the example of regional
forest management plans in Slovenia.
2.2 Integrating ecosystem services in sustainable forest
management: example from regional forest management plans,
Slovenia
Multiple ES are included in the Slovenian forestry legislation (Table 1), but they are termed forest
functions instead of ES. Forest management plans explicitly address 17 forest functions. Among them,
we selected six main forest functions representing all four groups of ES.
1. Provisioning services: timber production, provision of drinking water
Timber production is one of the main ES considered in sustainable FM. The average production
capacity of Slovenian forests is 7-8 m3 ha-1 year-1, and this ES is particularly important on 59.6 % of
the entire forest land (Poljanec et al., 2012) (Figure 2).
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow 1
1
Figure 2: Highly productive forests on the Pokljuka plateau (photo by Andreja Nève Repe, SFS)
Among the provisioning ES, the provision of drinking water is also very important. This function means
mechanical and biological treatment of water flow from forest surfaces and regulation of the water
regime by retaining rapid surface runoff (by slope and deep under the soil), slower melting of snow,
water conservation in forest soils and plants and delayed permeation of water from forest soil during
drying periods (Manual…, 2012). Forests with important hydrological function are mainly those in
flood, water conservation and potential water protection areas, determined in accordance with the
water regulations. Hydrological function is extremely important on 5.1 % of the entire forest area in
Slovenia (Figure 3).
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
12 Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow
Figure 3: The great importance of forests for the provision of drinking water and regulation of water
regime (photo by mag. Matjaž Guček, SFS)
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow 1
3
Table 2: How the main provisioning ES are considered in SFM
ES Criteria Guidelines / measures Indicators
Production
of timber
The potential of high long-
term yield:
1. level: the forests where it
is possible to harvest more
than 5m3 of gross wood
mass per hectare;
2. level: the forests where it
is possible to harvest 2 to
5m3 of gross wood mass
per hectare;
3. level: the forests where it
is possible to harvest up to
2m3 of gross wood mass
per hectare;
Increase natural
regeneration using different
techniques (larger
openings, taking into
account the seed years,
artificial regeneration if
urgent)
Increase thinning intensity
in young stages in order to
improve quality of wood
Selection of silvicultural
systems: e.g., stripwise
shelterwood approaches
and irregular shelterwood
systems, single stem
selection systems, plenter
systems depending on the
composition of natural
species and current state of
forests
Participation and
collaboration with forest
owners, stimulation of
active management
Open closed areas with
forest infrastructure
(skidding tracks, roads)
Actual cut vs.
maximum allowable
cut
Comparing actual
composition of tree
species to the goal
composition
Comparing actual
diameter distribution
to goal diameter
distribution
Comparing stand
structure to the goal
structure
Comparing planned
and actually performed
tending works in
young stages
The prevailing
regeneration method
(natural, mixed,
artificial)
Drinking
water
supply
Areas declared by decree
from water legislation
Other watershed areas
Potential water
conservation areas
Forests above the karst pit
or underground water
stream
The area surrounding the
water stream or pumping
station
Water stream or small
standing water body
Create forest stands of such
structure and composition
that they will allow the
greatest extent of water
supply (use scientific
guidelines)
Ensure continuous forest
cover and regeneration
under the closed canopy,
no large stand openings,
small-scale uneven-aged
stand structure
Preservation of lowland
riparian forests as high
water inhibiters
Construction of forest roads
under strict conditions:
The state of water
protection zones
The state of forests in
water protection zones
(vitality, damages, tree
species composition)
The soil stability
around water streams
and in other protected
zones
Amount of deadwood
Forest structure (e.g.
the proportion of
developmental phases)
Etc.
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
14 Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow
mandatory use of
biodegradable oils for
lubrication of motor saws
and in hydraulic systems of
machinery used in the
forest; use mainly existing
roads and only occasionally
build new ones under strict
conditions; no building of
forest infrastructure directly
by the streams etc.
Informing the public about
the importance of forests
for the supply of drinking
water
In the narrower catchment
area, the protection regime
set out in the regulations
on the water protection
must be respected (usually
in the narrowest water
protection zone
management is very
limited, and the narrowest
area is also fenced)
Insist on the immediate
removal of potential illegal
waste. It is also essential to
avoid the use of any
chemicals
The natural streams with all
the tree and shrub
vegetation should be
maintained
Selective harvesting along
the streams to remove old
and unstable trees
Selection of appropriate
tree species: along the
streams, choose the tree
species with strong root
system (silver fir, noble
broadleaves, European
beech, common hornbeam)
etc.
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow 1
5
2. Regulating services: protection of forest soil and sites, protection against natural
hazards
Among regulating ES, protection of forest soil and sites is the main ES provided by forests. This
function means protection of the site and its surroundings from the consequences of all types of
erosion processes, in particular the provision (preservation) of soil resistance to erosion phenomena
caused by cold, snow, water and wind; prevention of the development (occurrence) of landslides,
rockfalls and avalanches; preventing the deepening of the slopes; preventing the movement of debris;
conservation of forest soil fertility. Forests have an important protective function on the upper
timberline, in erosion, avalanching areas determined in accordance with the water regulations, on very
steep slopes, dry sites, shallow rocky or stone soils. Due to vulnerability and extreme characteristics of
forest sites, the protection of forest soil and sites is extremely important on the 15.4 % of the forest
area of Slovenia. Due to high importance of these sites, most of them are protected and placed in a
special category “protection forest” (Decree…, 2005; Figure 4).
Figure 4: The area and distribution of protection forests in Slovenia (source: SFS)
Another very important regulating ES is the protection against natural hazards, which can also be
called direct protection. It is a function of forests that protects traffic infrastructure, settlements and
other objects against natural phenomena, such as falling rocks, avalanches, landslides or side winds,
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
16 Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow
and ensures the safety of settlements and transport (Manual, 2012). In particular the forests on steep
slopes above the roads or railways and below them have an important protective function (Table 3).
The direct protection function is extremely important on 2.3 % of the entire forest area in Slovenia,
especially on extreme slopes near the existing infrastructure (Figure 5).
Figure 5: Forests important for protecting settlements against natural hazards (photo: mag. Matjaž
Guček, SFS)
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow 1
7
Table 3: How the main regulating ES are considered in SFM
Objectives Criteria Guidelines/ measures Indicators
Protection of
forest soil
and sites –
indirect
protection
forests
Sites at timberline
Slopes above 35
degrees on hard
bedrock and above
25 degrees on
potential erodible
sites
Shallow soils (up to
10 cm), over 70% of
rocks
Natural hazards (e.g.
water erosion,
landslides,
avalanches, floods)
Dry sites with
xerophytic vegetation
Continuous forest cover
Uneven-aged small-scale stand
structure, stable, diverse forest structure
Tree species composition, adapted to
forest sites, with deep root systems
(Pinus mugo, Pinus silvestris, Larix
decidua)
Permanent maintenance of pioneer
species (Salix, Pinus mugo, Alnus incana)
at the edge area of the active avalanches
Avalanches: leaving high tree hives, high
proportion of conifers
Prompt sanitation of damaged sites, also
with artificial regeneration, if needed
Leaving dead trees as retainers of water,
biomass and soil
Lower growing stock on steep slopes
due to stability of stands
Harvest of heavy trees on steep slopes
with shallow soil
Harmonisation of forest-ungulate
relations
Limiting harvest in areas with high
protection importance to sanitary cut
and tending young stands only
Leaving all harvest biomass on the karst
floor due to slow formation of soil from
the bedrock,
Lower density of roads on erodible
background
Grassy forest skidding tracks
Tractor, wire crane, manual and animal
skidding
Prohibition of logging and harvesting on
potentially erodible areas when the soil
is soaked
Drainage on flysch bedrock
Prevent stronger erosion by building
adequate protection facilities – drainage
and retaining walls
Growing stock
Density of
trees per ha
Tree species
composition of
forest
regeneration
and of mature
stand
Horizontal
stand structure
Proportion of
developmental
phases
Browsing rate
of forest
regeneration
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
18 Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow
Prevent construction of infrastructure
and other facilities, grazing, stoning and
any other form of soil degradation
Forbidden interventions in mountain
grasslands and remnants of tree and
bush vegetation
Protection
against
natural
hazards –
direct
protection
forests
Forests on steep
slopes above roads,
railways, settlements,
commercial or
residential buildings,
where there is a risk
of landslides, rockfall
or avalanches
Forests near the
airport
Forests that protect
against wind
A belt of forest trees
near infrastructural
facilities
Small-scale silviculture systems, mosaic
stand structure
Selection of tree species that are
appropriate for protection function
Prompt sanitary works / harvesting
Reduce the production period, lower
growing stocks, thinner trees – reduce
the target diameter of trees and increase
the number of trees per ha
Harvest of large-diameter trees with low
stability or trees that are dying due to
damage or age and may endanger
lower-lying traffic or objects
Small stand openings to prevent erosion
Prevent bare forest ground
Artificial planting when needed
Prompt sanitation of forest soil after
disturbances, such as planting with
pioneer species or species with a good
root system
Rigorous protection regime (closure of
forest roads, signboards warning of
activities when harvesting and logging)
In order to stop falling rocks, high hives
and dead trees should be left and must
be properly anchored and placed in
parallel with the horizontal lines
Similar as in
the case of
indirect
protection
forests, plus
build
protection
infrastructure
when forest
protection is
insufficient
(protection
nets, torrent
bulkheads)
3. Supporting services: providing habitat for species
In Forest management plans, the main supporting ES is the conservation of biodiversity in terms of
providing habitat for species. The forests that are important for providing this function / ES are those
that enable the provision of living space for plant and animal life groups, in particular those species
whose life cycle is connected to the forest, the conservation of biodiversity and the conservation of
natural equilibrium (Manual…, 2012; Table 4). Due to high proportion of forests in Slovenia (1.2 mio
ha of forests) and their preserved natural state, more than 45 % of forests are included in the Natura
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow 1
9
2000 network, and the nature protection / provision of habitat for species is extremely important on
5.1 % of the entire forest area (Figure 6).
Figure
6: Forests that are important as large preserved habitats for species (photo: Sašo Gorjanc, SFS)
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
20 Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow
Table 4: How the main supporting ES are considered in SFM
Objectives Criteria Guidelines/ measures Indicators
Habitat
for
species
Rare forest
ecosystems or
those in the vicinity
of other
ecosystems
Sites of rare or
endangered animal
or plant species
Forests and other
minority
ecosystems in the
forest area that are
relevant for the
preservation of rare
and endangered
animal and plant
species (e.g. nesting
sites)
Small forest
remnants in
agricultural and
peri-urban
landscape
Forests in the
Natura2000 sites
and ecologically
important sites
Preserve the favourable status of
all indigenous species
Maintain minority and
endangered ecosystems
Harvesting and skidding should
be adjusted to the animal species
(e.g. to their nesting season)
Adjust regeneration period and
the size of open areas to the
needs of endangered species
Maintain uneven-aged forest
structure
Create spatial and structural
diversity
Leaving large-diameter trees
Leaving habitat trees
Increasing the amount of dead
wood
Preservation of natural
distribution and the state of
habitats of plant and animal
species (Natura 2000 sites!)
Preservation of connectivity
between habitats of plant and
animal species
Adapt the time and intensity of
harvesting and other forestry
measures, and the used
technology to the ecology of
endangered species
Increase biodiversity with
preservation of minority tree
species, fruit trees, hollow and
decaying and rare tree and shrub
species
Create a network of areas left to
natural dynamics with no
management
Preserve the forest areas in
agricultural and urban landscapes
and forests along the streams
Increase the proportion of shrubs
and grasslands within the forests
Tree species
composition (of
mature stand and
of forest
regeneration)
Stand structure
(vertical, horizontal)
Diameter
distribution (e.g.
the proportion of
large-diameter
trees)
Number and
proportion of
ecocells
(unmanaged areas)
Proportion of
primeval forests
Indicators related
to endangered
species
The proportion and
structure of
deadwood
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow 2
1
that are relevant for improving
living conditions for wildlife
Maintenance of naturally rich and
species-rich forest edges relevant
as living habitats for wildlife
Define quiet zones for normal
development of endangered
wildlife species and improvement
of their living conditions
Adapt the time of harvest and
skidding to the time of nesting
season of endangered birds and
away from nesting areas of other
protected species
Protect wetlands in the forest and
other water ecosystems
Create new grasslands in the
Alpine space to improve the living
conditions of species
4. Cultural services: Recreation and mental and physical health
Among cultural ES, recreation and mental health were selected due to their high relevance in the
Alpine space and in Slovenia. These are mainly forests that enable activities that are relaxing and
strengthen physical or mental state including picking-up forest fruit for recreation purposes (Manual…,
2012). The important recreational function is provided by forests with relevant natural features,
accessibility and recreational infrastructure (paths, facilities) (Table 5). Due to the close proximity of
forests to urban places and touristic attractions around them, 4.9 % of forest areas are important for
recreation and tourism (Figure 7).
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
22 Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow
Figure 7: High importance of recreation in the Alps (photo: NU Triglav National Park, 2016)
Table 5: How the main cultural ES are considered in SFM
ES Criteria Guidelines Indicators
Recreation and
mental and
physical health
Vicinity of towns
and major urban
settlements
Footpaths to
tourist and
recreational sites
Entry points in
areas intended for
recreation
Infrastructure for
recreational
activities
European long-
distance paths
(E3, E4, E6, E7 and
E8) and other
important routes
with a large
number of visitors
Cycling and
mountain bike
routes
Maintain recreational
infrastructure
Enable accessibility of recreational
areas
Inform public regarding the
importance of forests for
recreation
Create interesting forest stands
that are attractive to the visitors
Uneven-aged and small-scale
horizontal stand structure
High diversity of tree species
Selection of aesthetically
interesting species along
recreational trails
Sanitary cut to prevent accidents
Immediate cleaning of branches
and other material after
harvesting, putting branches on
piles away from recreational paths
and in a way that prevents them
Number of visitors
in the forests
Number, length
and state of
recreational paths
List of interesting
objects
Survey of visitors
Etc.
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Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow 2
3
Sport grounds
Urban forests
Intensity of
picking non-wood
forest products
from disturbing the aesthetics of
the forests
Adjust technology of wood
production: use of more friendly
harvesting and skidding
technologies
Communication with forest
owners in case of private forests
Avoid harvesting and skidding in
periods when forests are most
heavily visited
Cutting trees for views
Collaborating with Slovenian
hiking association
Harmonisation with other land
uses: redirect tourists and people
seeking recreation from
ecologically valuable areas
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
24 Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow
3 CONCLUSIONS
In forest management planning, multiple ES are considered and provided to the society. However, by
doing so, the forest ecosystems must be managed according to the objectives. In the planning
guidelines, forest ecosystems and their soil and sites must be preserved when measures for certain ES
are set. For example, when watersheds are concerned, the suggested width of stream vegetation
should be doubled if the soil is erodible. When timber production is concerned, a strong emphasis is
given to consideration of soil conditions in case of erodible soils…, reflecting in limitations of the
technology used (e.g. type of tractors, limitations of machine harvesting, of the density of forest
infrastructure build). When cultural services are at stake, the state of forest soil and sites is often used
as an indicator of the successfulness of multiple use. If forest soil is eroded due to overvisited sites,
the sites are either managed with additional infrastructure in order to stabilise the slopes, or forest
visitors are redirected to other places. Such approach is rather difficult and intensive, but it provides
many benefits in all areas. It adds to the soil conservation, makes a contribution to the climate-change
mitigation, satisfies the cultural demands for forests, creates forests that are rich in biodiversity and
provides food in terms of wood, fuelwood and other non-wood products, all of which are emphasised
in the SFM.
4 REFERENCES
Bončina, A., Simončič, T., Rosset, C. (2019). Assessment of the concept of forest functions in Central
European forestry. Environmental science & policy, 99, 123-135.
Decree on protective forests and forests with a special purpose. Official Gazette of RS, Nos. 88/05,
56/07, 29/09, 91/10, 1/13 and 39/15.
FAO (2003). Sustainable Forest Management and the Ecosystem services approach: two concepts, one
goal.
Forest management plan for Forest management unit Pokljuka 2005-2016 (2005). Slovenia Forest
Service, Bled.
Manual on the elaboration of forest management plans for forest management units (2012). Slovenia
Forest Service, Department for forest planning, Ljubljana.
MEA (Millennium Ecosystem Assessment) (2005) Ecosystems and human well−being: Current state
and trends. Washington DC, Island Press.
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow 2
5
MCPFE (Ministerial Conference on Protection of Forests in Europe) (2002) Improved Pan-European
Indicators for Sustainable Forest Management. Expert Level Meeting 7-8 October 2002, Vienna,
Austria.
MCPFE (2002). General guidelines for the sustainable management of forests in Europe. Second
Ministerial Conference on the Protection of Forests in Europe. 16-17 June 1993, Helsinki/Finland.
Poljanec, A. (ed.) (2012). Forest management and game plans of forest management regions for the
period 2011-2020 (in Slovene). Jonozovič M., Marenče M., Matijašić D., Pisek R., Poljanec A, Veselič
Ž., Slovenia forest service, 111 p.
Regulations on forest management and game management plans (Official Gazette of RS, no. 91/10).
Simončič, T., Bončina, A., Rosset, C., Binder, F., De Meo, I., Čavlović, J., Gal, J., Matijašić, D., Schneider,
J., Singer, F., Sitko, R. (2013). Importance of priority areas for multi-objective forest planning: a
Central European perspective. International Journal of Forestry Review 15, 4, 509–523.
Simončič, T., Spies, T.A., Deal, R.L., Bončina, A. (2015). A conceptual framework for characterizing forest
areas with high societal values: Experiences from the Pacific Northwest of USA and Central Europe.
Environmental Management, 56, 1, 127–143.
Wagner, S., Huth, F., Mohren, F., Herrmann, I. (2013). Silvicultural systems and multiple service forestry,
in: Kraus, D., Krumm, F. (Eds.). Integrative approaches as an opportunity for the conservation of
forest biodiversity. European Forest Institute, pp. 64–73.
ZG (Zakon o gozdovih) (1993) Ur. l. RS, št. 30–1299/1993.
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
26 Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow
5 LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1: Concept of sustainable and multi-objective forest management and ecosystem services
(see also Bončina et al., 2019 for the detailed illustration of the integration of forest functions/
ecosystem services into forest management) ............................................................................................... 8
Figure 2: highly productive forests on the Pokljuka plateau (photo by Andreja Repe Nève, SFS) 11
Figure 3: the high importance of forests for the provision of drinking water and regulation of water
regime (photo by mag. Matjaž Guček, SFS) ................................................................................................. 12
Figure 4: The area and distribution of protection forests in Slovenia (source: SFS)...................... 15
Figure 5: Forests important for protecting settlements against natural hazards (photo: mag. Matjaž
Guček, SFS) ................................................................................................................................................................ 16
Figure 6: Forests important as large preserved habitats for species (photo: Sašo Gorjanc, SFS)19
Figure 7: High importance of recreation in the Alps (photo: NU Triglav National Park, 2016) 22
6 LIST OF TABLES
Table 1: FAO Classification of Ecosystem Services and the list of ES addressed in forest management
plans .............................................................................................................................................................................. 7
Table 2: How the main provisioning ES are considered in SFM ........................................................... 13
Table 3: How the main regulating ES are considered in SFM ................................................................ 17
Table 4: How the main supporting ES are considered in SFM .............................................................. 20
Table 5: How the main cultural ES are considered in SFM ..................................................................... 22
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow 2
7
PART II
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
28 Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow
DELIVERABLE CONTENT
This deliverable shows results from the Soil Function Assessment (SFA) and the Soil Forest
Management categorisation (traffic light system for biomass use and heavy machinery transit effects)
for five soil pits (L4S1-5) investigated in the Tyrolean Case Study forest area of Prägraten (see Figure
1).
Among other environmental factors, both, the Soil Function Assessment and the Soil Forest
Management categorisation rely on a combination of specific soil properties, are to be formulated.
The soil data collected in the five pits in Prägraten provided us with enough information to conduct
both evaluations. For the latter one, selected soil chemical and physical properties are essential: these
are summarised in the one-page soil pit descriptions (Fig. 3 -7).
The colour categories assigned to the measured values of pH, base saturation, cation exchange
capacity and carbon to nitrogen ratio that were applied considering the criteria of the legend in Table
8, allowed us to derive the “traffic light” colour category of the “biomass use” box. Together with the
category assigned to the “compaction risk” box, making use of the soil coarse fraction and the texture,
we defined site-specific forest management measures at each soil pit (Waldtypisierung Tirol, 2019).
For conducting the SFA, we calculated 12 soil function fulfilment levels using the SEPP tool (Soil
Evaluation for Planning Procedures), which are also based on data retrieved from soil pit descriptions.
The tool was developed by the Institute of Geography of the University of Innsbruck and it allows an
automated assessment of the level of function fulfilment in five classes from very low (1) to very high
(5) (Gruber et al. 2019). Tables 9a-13a list the soil function fulfilment levels for each soil pit. Since soil
functions determine the provision of SbES, the results of the SFA (see Figure 2) could be used to derive
the provision of five SbES that were defined within the Links4Soils project. Table 1 shows on which
group of soil functions each SbES is based and the conversion tables 2-6 show how the results of the
SFA are transferred to an SbES evaluation: intervals of combined grouped soil function levels
correspond to SbES levels from very low (1) to very high (5). Tables 9b-13b show the evaluation results
for the 5 services at each soil pit, providing at least two short comments respectively to explain which
environmental factors and soil properties are behind the assignment of the grade and the reason
behind differences among soil pit evaluations.
Table 7 summarises the results of both, the SbES evaluation and the forest management categories
for each investigated soil pit. The results reflect that those forest soils contribute greatly to the “global
climate regulation” and to “surface runoff regulation”, whereas the provision of “water filtration and
purification” and “habitat provision” is rather low. However, if forest soils are managed improperly,
the ability of soils to provide those services might be deteriorated. Therefore, the Forest Department
of the Tyrolean Government developed guidelines to prevent soil degradation (Links4Soils project
deliverable D.T. 3.1.4). By means of the traffic light system practitioners get valuable and easily
understandable information on how to implement sustainable forest management. In line with the
thematic maps produced in Prägraten regarding compaction risk and biomass use (Links4Soils project
deliverable D.T. 3.1.1), where more than 60% of the case study area was assigned an orange category
for forest management, 4 investigated soil pits also individually show an intermediate evaluation.
Therefore, controlled but not extreme protective measures have to be applied at most sites.
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow 2
9
Figure 1: A case study area showing L4S pits and forest cover
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
30 Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow
Table 1: Soil-based Ecosystem Services in relation to groups of soil functions. The functions “habitat for
crops”, “groundwater recharge” and “retention of precipitation (average kf)” were excluded
Soil functions -- SEPP tool Soil-based ES -- Links4Soils
Habitat for drought-tolerant species
Habitat provision (biodiversity) Habitat for moisture-tolerant species
Habitat for soil organisms
Habitat for crops Agricultural biomass provision
Retention of precipitation (average kf)
Surface runoff regulation Retention of precipitation (min kf)
Short-term retention of heavy precipitation
Groundwater recharge ---
Nutrient provision to plants Nutrient cycle regulation
Carbon storage Global climate regulation (carbon cycle)
Retention of heavy metals
Water filtration and purification
Transformation of organic contaminants
Filtration and buffering of organic
contaminants
Retention of water-soluble contaminants
Buffering of acidic substances
Figure 2: Barplots representing the distribution of the soil function levels of fulfilment (1 - very low to 5 –
very high) of the 5 soil profiles described in the case study area of Prägraten
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow 3
1
Table 2: Conversion table from three soil functions to the SbES "Habitat provision and biodiversity". Since
habitats for moisture-tolerant and drought-tolerant species exclude each other, only the higher
level of function fulfilment of both is considered.
The sum of soil function
fulfilment levels
SbES level
Habitat for soil organisms
+
maximum (Habitat for moisture-
tolerant species and Habitat for
drought-tolerant species)
Habitat provision
(biodiversity)
2 1
3-4 2
5-6 3
7-8 4
9-10 5
Table 3: Conversion table from two soil functions to the SbES "Surface runoff regulation". Since the one
function – i.e. retention of precipitation – was calculated with two different algorithms (based on
average or minimum kf), only one result (i.e. level based on min kf) is considered.
The sum of soil function
fulfilment levels
SbES level
Retention of precipitation (min kf)
+
Short-term retention of heavy
precipitation
Surface runoff
regulation
2 1
3-4 2
5-6 3
7-8 4
9-10 5
Table 4: Conversion table from one soil function to the SbES "Nutrient cycle regulation". Since only one
soil function is relevant for the SbES, the levels stay unchanged.
Soil function fulfilment level SbES level
Nutrient provision to plants Nutrient cycle regulation
1 1
2 2
3 3
4 4
5 5
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
32 Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow
Table 5: Conversion table from one soil function to the SbES "Global climate regulation (carbon cycle)".
Since only one soil function is relevant for the SbES, the levels stay unchanged.
Soil function fulfilment level SbES level
Carbon storage Global climate
regulation (carbon cycle)
1 1
2 2
3 3
4 4
5 5
Table 6: Conversion table from five soil functions to the SbES "Water filtration and purification". Since
all functions are likewise important for avoiding different pollutants in surface and groundwater
bodies, all of them are considered and equally weighted.
The sum of soil function
fulfilment levels
SbES level
Retention of heavy metals
+
Transformation of organic
contaminants
+
Filtration and buffering of
organic contaminants
+
Retention of water-soluble
contaminants
+
Buffering of acidic substances
Water filtration and
purification
5-7 1
8-12 2
13-17 3
18-22 4
23-25 5
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow 3
3
Table 7: The summary of SbES evaluation given to the soil pits of Prägraten and soil management
categories assigned for biomass use and compaction risk
Soil(-based) Ecosystem Services
Habitat
provision
(biodiversity)
Surface
runoff
regulation
Nutrient
cycle
regulation
Global
climate
regulation
(carbon
cycle)
Water
filtration
and
purification
Biomass
use
guideline
category
Compactio
n risk
guideline
category
Sit
e ID
S L4S1 3 5 3 5 2
L4S2 2 4 1 5 2 L4S3 3 5 3 5 2
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
34 Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow
Table 8: The legend assigning colours to intervals of soil chemical properties: these intervals set the
baseline for the traffic light colour definition
L4S4 3 5 3 5 2 L4S5 3 4 3 5 2
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow 3
5
Figure 3: Description of physical and chemical properties of soil pit L4S1 with resulting biomass use and compaction
risk effect categories
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
36 Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow
Tables 9a,b: Levels of fulfilment assigned with SEPP tool to 12 functions for pit L4S1 (a), followed by 5
derived Soil(-based) Ecosystem Services evaluation (b)
Soil functions – SEPP tool SFA level
Habitat for drought-tolerant species 2
Habitat for moisture-tolerant species 2
Habitat for soil organisms 3
Retention of precipitation (min kf) 4
Short Term Retention of Heavy Precipitation 5
Nutrient provision to plants 3
Carbon storage 5
Retention of heavy metals 2
Transformation of organic contaminants 1
Filtration and buffering of organic
contaminants 1
Retention of water-soluble contaminants 2
Buffering of acidic substances 3
Soil-based Ecosystem Service SbES level Comment
Habitat provision (biodiversity) 3
A low level of fulfilment
characterises the habitat
functions, as the available
field capacity is relatively
high for the drought-tolerant
species and relatively low for
the moisture-tolerant ones.
The present soil organism
communities have slightly
better conditions.
Surface runoff regulation 5
Nutrient cycle regulation 3
Global climate regulation
(carbon cycle) 5
The conifer forest land use,
which characterises all sites,
guarantees a high biomass
production, thus a high level
of fulfilment for the carbon
storage function.
Water filtration and purification 2
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow 3
7
Figure 4: Description of physical and chemical properties of soil pit L4S2 with resulting biomass use and compaction
risk effect categories
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
38 Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow
Tables 10a,b: Levels of fulfilment assigned with SEPP tool to 12 functions for pit L4S2 (a), followed by 5
derived Soil(-based) Ecosystem Services evaluation with comments (b)
Soil(-based) Ecosystem Service SbES level Comment
Habitat provision (biodiversity) 2
Surface runoff regulation 4
A combination of high
water storage capacity, air
capacity and saturated
hydraulic conductivity at
this pit is the reason for
high uptake of water by
the soil during
precipitation. A good
surface runoff regulation
is provided.
Nutrient cycle regulation 1
The nutrient provision
level of fulfilment is the
lowest due to the very low
pH values which
characterise the soil at this
pit. The nutrient cycling
for plants and soil biota is
at its minimum level.
Global climate regulation (carbon
cycle) 5
Water filtration and purification 2
Soil functions – SEPP tool SFA level
Habitat for drought-tolerant species 2
Habitat for moisture-tolerant species 2
Habitat for soil organisms 2
Retention of precipitation (min kf) 3
Short Term Retention of Heavy Precipitation 5
Nutrient provision to plants 1
Carbon storage 5
Retention of heavy metals 1
Transformation of organic contaminants 1
Filtration and buffering of organic contaminants 1
Retention of water-soluble contaminants 2
Buffering of acidic substances 3
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow 3
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Figure 5: Description of physical and chemical properties of soil pit L4S3 with resulting biomass use and compaction
risk effect categories
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
40 Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow
Tables 11a,b: Levels of fulfilment assigned with SEPP tool to 12 functions for pit L4S3 (a), followed by 5
derived Soil(-based) Ecosystem Services evaluations with comments (b)
Soil(-based) Ecosystem Service SbES level Comment
Habitat provision (biodiversity) 3
Particularly in relation to
moisture-tolerant species,
this pit provides a good
environment for many soil
organisms. This is also
due to the higher field
capacity in comparison to
the other pits.
Surface runoff regulation 5
Nutrient cycle regulation 3
Global climate regulation (carbon
cycle) 5
Water filtration and purification 2
This pit is characterised by
a higher available field
capacity in comparison to
the others. This guarantees
a higher level for the
retention of water-soluble
contaminants.
Soil functions – SEPP tool SFA level
Habitat for drought-tolerant species 2
Habitat for moisture-tolerant species 3
Habitat for soil organisms 3
Retention of precipitation (min kf) 4
Short Term Retention of Heavy Precipitation 5
Nutrient provision to plants 3
Carbon storage 5
Retention of heavy metals 2
Transformation of organic contaminants 1
Filtration and buffering of organic contaminants 1
Retention of water-soluble contaminants 3
Buffering of acidic substances 3
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow 4
1
Figure 6: Description of physical and chemical properties of soil pit L4S4 with resulting biomass use and compaction
risk effect categories
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
42 Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow
Tables 12a,b: Levels of fulfilment assigned with SEPP tool to 12 functions for pit L4S4 (a), followed by 5
derived Soil(-based) Ecosystem Services evaluations with comments (b)
Soil(-based) Ecosystem Service SbES level Comment
Habitat provision (biodiversity) 3
Surface runoff regulation 5
A combination of high water
storage capacity, air capacity and
saturated hydraulic conductivity at
this pit is the reason for high uptake
of water by the soil during
precipitation. A very good surface
runoff regulation is provided.
Nutrient cycle regulation 3
Global climate regulation (carbon
cycle) 5
Water filtration and purification 2 All pits have a poor retention of
heavy metals and filtration capacity
of organic contaminants. This is
partially due to the coarse texture of
the soils.
Soil functions – SEPP tool SFA level
Habitat for drought-tolerant species 2
Habitat for moisture-tolerant species 2
Habitat for soil organisms 3
Retention of precipitation (min kf) 5
Short Term Retention of Heavy Precipitation 5
Nutrient provision to plants 3
Carbon storage 5
Retention of heavy metals 2
Transformation of organic contaminants 1
Filtration and buffering of organic contaminants 1
Retention of water-soluble contaminants 2
Buffering of acidic substances 3
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow 4
3
Figure 7: Description of physical and chemical properties of soil pit L4S5 with resulting biomass use and compaction
risk effect categories
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
44 Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow
Tables 13a,b: Levels of fulfilment assigned with SEPP tool to 12 functions for pit L4S5 (a), followed by 5
derived Soil(-based) Ecosystem Services evaluations with comments (b)
Soil functions -- SEPP tool SFA level
Habitat for drought-tolerant species 2
Habitat for moisture-tolerant species 2
Habitat for soil organisms 3
Retention of precipitation (min kf) 2
Short Term Retention of Heavy Precipitation 5
Nutrient provision to plants 3
Carbon storage 5
Retention of heavy metals 2
Transformation of organic contaminants 1
Filtration and buffering of organic contaminants 1
Retention of water-soluble contaminants 2
Buffering of acidic substances 3
Soil(-based) Ecosystem Service SbES level Comment
Habitat provision (biodiversity) 3
Surface runoff regulation 4
The minimum permeability
coefficient at this pit is very
low compared to the average
one. Overall, the surface
runoff regulation is positively
evaluated because of a high
level of short-term retention
of heavy precipitation, which
characterises all described soil
pits.
Nutrient cycle regulation 3
Average values for pH, clay
content and coarse fraction
result in a model-based
average cation exchange
capacity. As in most of the
described soil pits, the nutrient
cycle regulation service at this
profile is provided
moderately.
Global climate regulation (carbon
cycle) 5
Water filtration and purification 2
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow 4
5
7 REFERENCES
Gruber F.E., Schaber E., Baruck J., Geitner C. (2019) How and to what extent does topography control
the results of soil function assessment: a case study from the Alps in South Tyrol (Italy), Soil Syst.
2019, 3, 18; doi:10.3390/soilsystems3010018
Waldtypisierung Tirol, 2019. Waldtypenhandbuch. Amt der Tiroler Landesregierung.
Innsbruck, AT
Links4Soils Deliverable D.T3.1.1. - Applicable soil thematic maps on soil degradation threats with
explanatory manual for forest planners and practitioners
Links4Soils Deliverable D.T3.1.4. - Transnational implementation guidelines of soil protection in
forest management practices
8 LIST OF TABLES
Table 1: Soil-based Ecosystem Services in relation to groups of soil functions. The functions “habitat
for crops” ,“groundwater recharge” and “retention of precipitation (average kf)” were excluded 30
Table 2: Conversion table from three soil functions to the SbES "Habitat provision and biodiversity".
Since habitats for moisture-tolerant and drought-tolerant species exclude each other, only the
higher level of function fulfilment of both is considered. ....................................................................... 31
Table 3: Conversion table from two soil functions to the SbES "Surface runoff regulation". Since the
one function – i.e. retention of precipitation – was calculated with two different algorithms (based on
average or minimum kf), only one result (i.e. level based on min kf) is considered. .................... 31
Table 4: Conversion table from one soil function to the SbES "Nutrient cycle regulation". Since only
one soil function is relevant for the SbES, the levels stay unchanged. .............................................. 31
Table 5: Conversion table from one soil function to the SbES "Global climate regulation (carbon
cycle)". Since only one soil function is relevant for the SbES, the levels stay unchanged. ......... 32
Table 6: Conversion table from five soil functions to the SbES "Water filtration and purification".
Since all functions are likewise important to avoid different pollutants in surface and groundwater
bodies, all of them are considered and equally weighted. ..................................................................... 32
Table 7: Summary of SbES evaluation given to the soil pits of Prägraten and soil management
categories assigned for biomass use and compaction risk .................................................................... 33
Table 8: Legend assigning colours to intervals of soil chemical properties: these intervals set the
baseline for the traffic light colours definition ............................................................................................ 34
Tables 9a,b: Levels of fulfilment assigned with SEPP tool to 12 functions for pit L4S1 (a), followed by
5 derived Soil(-based) Ecosystem Services evaluation (b) ...................................................................... 36
Tables 10a,b: Levels of fulfilment assigned with SEPP tool to 12 functions for pit L4S2 (a), followed by
5 derived Soil(-based) Ecosystem Services evaluation with comments (b) ...................................... 38
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
46 Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow
Tables 11a,b: Levels of fulfilment assigned with SEPP tool to 12 functions for pit L4S3 (a), followed by
5 derived Soil(-based) Ecosystem Services evaluations with comments (b) .................................... 40
Tables 12a,b: Levels of fulfilment assigned with SEPP tool to 12 functions for pit L4S4 (a), followed by
5 derived Soil(-based) Ecosystem Services evaluations with comments (b) .................................... 42
Tables 13a,b: Levels of fulfilment assigned with SEPP tool to 12 functions for pit L4S5 (a), followed by
5 derived Soil(-based) Ecosystem Services evaluations with comments (b) .................................... 44
9 LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1: Case study area showing L4S pits and forest cover ................................................................ 29
Figure 2: Barplots representing the distribution of the soil function levels of fulfilment (1 - very low
to to 5 - very high) of the 5 soil profiles described in the case study area of Prägraten ............ 30
Figure 3: Description of physical and chemical properties of soil pit L4S1, with resulting biomass use
and compaction risk effect categories ........................................................................................................... 35
Figure 4: Description of physical and chemical properties of soil pit L4S2, with resulting biomass use
and compaction risk effect categories ........................................................................................................... 37
Figure 5: Description of physical and chemical properties of soil pit L4S3, with resulting biomass use
and compaction risk effect categories ........................................................................................................... 39
Figure 6: Description of physical and chemical properties of soil pit L4S4, with resulting biomass use
and compaction risk effect categories ........................................................................................................... 41
Figure 7: Description of physical and chemical properties of soil pit L4S5, with resulting biomass use
and compaction risk effect categories ........................................................................................................... 43
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow 4
7
ABOUT THE LINKS4SOILS PROJECT
Web links
Links4Soils results web page: Alpine Soil Platform – www.alpinesoils.eu
Links4Soils Interreg Alpine Space project web page: www.alpine-space.eu/projects/links4soils
Links4Soils project partners
Agricultural Institute of Slovenia, SI (project leader)
Kmetijski inštitut Slovenije
Slovenia Forest Service, SI
Zavod za gozdove Slovenije
Office of the Tyrolean Government, AT
Amt der Tiroler Landesregierung
Climate Alliance Tirol, AT
Klimabündnis Tirol
Institute of Geography, University of Innsbruck, AT
Institut für Geographie, Universität Innsbruck
University of Turin, Department of Agricultural, Forest and
Food Sciences, IT
Università degli Studi di Torino, Dipartimento di Scienze
Agrarie, Forestali e Alimentari
Autonomous Region of Aosta Valley, IT
Regione autonoma Valle d´Aosta
National Research Institute of Science and Technology for
the Environment and Agriculture, Grenoble Regional Centre,
FR
Institut national de recherche en sciences et technologies
pour l'environnement et l'agriculture, Grenoble
Concept and test of sustainable forest management using the ecosystem services approach
48 Caring for Soils – Where Our Roots Grow
Municipality of Kaufering, DE
Markt Kaufering