Fagus sylvatica plantings in the Rivne region

Abstract

Introduction

The urgent need for forest restoration in Ukraine highlights the ecological and silvicultural significance of European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.). While beech forests in the Carpathians have received considerable attention, more eastern regions – particularly the Rivne region – have been relatively overlooked. In the context of forest restoration across the Volyn-Podillia Upland, especially in its elevated areas, it is worth revisiting the practices of local foresters from a century ago, who successfully established artificial European beech stands.

Materials and Methods

Research was conducted between 2015 and 2025 in artificially established beech stands within the Volyn Upland in the Rivne region. Sample plots were laid out according to standard forest mensuration techniques to assess silvicultural and mensuration parameters. Tree height and trunk diameter were measured, while plantation area and age were determined based on forestry inventory records.

The aim of the study was to assess the current state of beech forests in the Rivne region, to identify priorities for future research, and to explore prospects and strategies for expanding the area of beech plantations both within the region and beyond.

Results

This study presents the first comprehensive mensuration of beech stands in the Rivne region within the Volyn Upland. Research findings indicate that the condition of beech stands in this region can be confidently rated as “good” on a five-point scale. Although seed production was observed, natural regeneration and seedlings were largely absent – except in isolated openings within low-density stands in Section 52, Myrohoshcha Forestry. In 2024, abundant natural regeneration (100–200 seedlings per m²) was documented on a southern slope in Section 25 of Khoriv Forestry. Beech stands planted between 1925 and 1939 as monocultures (100% beech) within the Volyn Upland proved highly productive, falling into site quality classes I^a – I^b and reaching significant timber stocks of 372–477 m³·ha^-1 at maturity. In contrast, attempts to establish mixed plantations with Picea abies (50% beech, 50% spruce) and Quercus robur (80% beech, 20% oak) were unsuccessful. Spruce, competing with beech for light, developed elongated, weak trunks that bent and distorted under snow loads, ultimately lagging in growth or dying. These trees were subsequently removed. Similarly, oak failed to compete effectively and was eliminated during thinning.

Conclusions

Artificial beech plantations were established on elevated sites of the Volyn Upland (245–350 m above see level) on gray forest soils within fresh and moist hornbeam-oak forest types. These plantations, primarily pure beech plantings (100% beech), were established using various planting patterns. Most of the surveyed stands are now approaching maturity and are scheduled for clear-cutting. We recommend that the most valuable of these stands be reassessed for alternative management. Instead of harvesting, they should be preserved for their historical, recreational, and scientific-forestry significance, meriting further research and conservation.

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