Forest and water

The importance of forests for the chemical quality of surface and groundwater and thus for the provision of drinking water, and the adaptation of forest ecosystems to changing climate conditions are socially relevant topics. In the “Forest and Water” area of work, water balance models are created on experimental areas and landscape regions in order to address issues such as drought stress risk, the provision of drinking water and flood prevention.

Basic information on the water balance is provided for the FVA's climate impact research. The effects of extreme weather conditions (heavy rain, heat, drought) on substance leaching/release are studied in laboratory and field experiments. Practical guides for forest management strategies to conserve water are also being developed for forest owners.