Strategy

The Long-term Forest Ecosystem Research programme LWF investigates anthropogenic and natural forces on the long-term health of the forests and the potential risks to humans. In order to find these answers, a profound understanding of the relationship between processes, causes and effects in the ecosystem are necessary.

Objectives of the programme

• Early detection and a representative assessment of changes in forest condition
• Determination of external influences, both from anthropogenic and natural sources and their effect on the forest ecosystem (element inputs, climate)
• Determination of changes in important components within the forest ecosystem
• Development of indicators to assess the condition of the forest
• Integrated risk assessment based on different stress scenarios
• Extended platform for internal and external research projects

The LWF programme provides, on the one hand, long-term data series together with a scientific interpretation to national and international policy makers. On the other hand, the available data and latest LWF infrastructure provide an attractive scientific platform for collaboration with both national and international partners.