Heat stress endangers Brandenburg's city trees - an appeal to the citizens!

Heat stress endangers Brandenburg's city trees - an appeal to the citizens!

In Brandenburg an der Havel, many of the approximately 50,000 city trees are under considerable heat stress. An exceptionally dry spring has made the trees more susceptible to disease, which is not without consequences. More and more of these green life givers are dying off. Mayor Michael Müller informs citizens about the current situation and explains that the city is actively counteracting this by planting more young trees, especially in the city center. Climate-resistant tree species are used in these new plantings. Particularly positive experiences were made with newly planted flower ash trees on the market square, which are developing splendidly.

To combat the acute water shortage, the city is appealing to its citizens to water the trees and be careful not to park too close to the trunks of their cars. Young trees are regularly supplied with around 200 liters of water per month by the Parks Department. Citizens are also encouraged to actively care for their surroundings and to additionally water the trees in front of their houses. Parking too close can cause significant damage to the roots.

Focus on storm and weather damage

After an unexpected storm, the city took urgent measures to ensure the safety of the trees. It is checked which trees need to be felled, trimmed or supported. Some specimens fell over or broke branches, but fortunately there were no injuries. Specific figures on the damage caused by the storm are not yet available.

However, the climate crisis does not only pose challenges for Brandenburg an der Havel. All of Germany is also struggling with the changes brought about by heat and drought. Numerous tree species are reaching their adaptation limits, and more frequent extreme weather events such as storms and heavy rain increase the uncertainties in silviculture. Therefore, choosing suitable tree species is crucial. Projects like the one from the Forest heritage warn that maintaining and converting forests is becoming more challenging as climatic conditions continue to change.

Trees and their future in climate change

The optimal choice of tree species not only influences the stability of forests, but also important ecological functions. A site-appropriate selection is necessary to ensure the preservation of ecosystem services such as CO2 binding, water storage and biodiversity. The Research Institute for Forests and Wood has found that by 2070 the area covered by beech trees could decline due to rising temperatures and reduced rainfall. To meet future challenges, Mediterranean downy oak forests could show the greatest adaptive gain.

Specifically, one project predicts that up to 75% of the area could be used for certain climatically adapted tree species. Both native and non-European tree species come into consideration. Of the 101 tree species considered important for Germany, 37 are native and 39 come from outside Europe. This diversity presents opportunities, but also risks, as nine native species could be affected by range loss.

The challenges posed by climate change make it all the more important to take active countermeasures and protect biological diversity. This not only affects cities like Brandenburg an der Havel, but also our future when it comes to the treatment of our forests and trees. A good hand in choosing tree species can be crucial for the health of our cities and landscapes.