Within the Interreg HUSK #oakadapt project, the Technical University in Zvolen is involved in research, coordination, and promotion activities focused on enhancing the adaptability of oak forests through close-to-nature forest management. This article provides an overview of the main activities carried out by TUZVO during the first year of the project.
Research Activities and Management Interventions
A key research activity implemented by the Technical University in Zvolen is the continuation of the long-term management experiment Eutrofyt in oak forests of the University Forest Enterprise. The research is conducted at five study sites, where different types of forest management interventions representing traditional management practices are applied in combination with simulated increased nitrogen deposition.
During the growing season, phytosociological surveys and systematic collection of environmental data are carried out, focusing in particular on site microclimate, soil properties, and the species composition of forest communities. In autumn, after leaf fall, leaf litter is removed from selected plots and fertilization is applied, allows observing the effects of management treatments.
Mycological Survey
Field activities also included a systematic mycological survey aimed at monitoring the occurrence of fungi under different management treatments. The collected data make it possible to analyse relationships between fungi, site conditions, and management interventions, contributing to a better understanding of functional biodiversity in forest ecosystems.
Typological Representative Plots
An important part of the project activities focuses on revisiting historical typological representative plots (TRP) established in the second half of the 20th century. During the first year of the project, TUZVO also contributed to this activity by relocating several of these plots and carrying out new field measurements. These data will enable comparisons between historical and current information on forest stand structure, vegetation, and soil conditions.
Promotion and Cooperation
In addition to research activities, the Technical University in Zvolen is also involved in disseminating project results. In cooperation with external organisation a visual identity (logo) for the #oakadapt project and information leaflet were developed.
A significant promotional activity was the production of a short documentary film, to which all project partners contributed expert input. The film serves as a tool for promoting close-to-nature forest management and highlighting the importance of adapting oak forests to changing environmental conditions.
