University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU) - Research portal
Forest site classification Styria - ecological characterization for a dynamic forest site classification - meteorological part
Subproject of: Forest site classification Styria - ecological characterization for a dynamic forest site classification (FORSITE)
- Project Leader
- Formayer Herbert, Project Leader
- Duration:
- 01.10.2018-01.12.2021
- Programme:
- Amt der Steiermärkischen Landesregierung - Beauftragung
- Type of Research
- Applied Research
- BOKU Research Units
- Institute of Meteorology and Climatology
- Abstract
- A lack of forest site information in Styria asks for a new approach to forest site classification and mapping. Another challenge is the consideration of changing climatic conditions, which will affect the classification of forest sites and the choice of tree species. Theoretical concepts for a new approach in "dynamic site classification" exist, but the implementation of an integrated site and forest classification in for the whole forest area in Styria is a scientific challenge.
In this project the forest site classification will be based on a GIS-based geo-ecological stratification model. The database will be based on a digital elevation model, a geological base map, digitally available site and climate data as well as empirical site parameters. A map of forest types will be derived based on several thematic maps, including information about energy, water and nutrient balance. Those parameters will be modeled on the basis of point and area related data, which are then combined into forest types with a uniform combination of factors. The model allows a stratification of the forest types on all sites based on digital geo-ecological parameters (including height about sea level, slope, substrate, terrain, slope). Each forest type is represented on the forest type map at a scale of 1: 25,000. In addition to the ecological facts, each forest type is characterized by a description of silvicultural guidelines containing information on the appropriate choice of tree species, potential hazards and adaptation methods. There guidelines will also describe previous experiences with the tree species and their mixtures, and will provide recommendations for the future forest management with regard to climate change.
- Keywords
- Statistics; Climatology; Meteorology; Mountain meteorology;
- Interpolation; Localization of climate scenarios; Spatial analyzes; Regional climate modelling;