Lack of rain and recurring heat waves are putting Luxembourg's forests under pressure. At a press conference held in Leudelange on Thursday, the Nature and Forest Agency (ANF) warned of the consequences of these weather conditions, exacerbated by climate change.
While the risk of fire is often the first danger mentioned, the effects of drought go far beyond that. Deprived of water for extended periods, trees have fewer resources to grow and regenerate.
The ANF also explained that the trees have more difficulty obtaining water, causing the wood to lose elasticity, which increases the risk of breakage and falling branches, and can even destabilise the entire tree.
The ANF said the forest remains a natural environment where certain risks cannot be completely eliminated. Visitors are urged to exercise caution, especially after severe weather or during prolonged periods of drought.
The agency recommends staying on marked paths, favouring open spaces for taking a break, respecting temporary closures of certain forest areas and avoiding any activity likely to cause sparks or a fire.
Beyond these recommendations, the ANF said it will continue efforts to make public forests more resilient to climate change. This includes the development of mixed forests, composed of different tree species adapted to local conditions.
The agency also explained that it is collaborating with the Grand-Ducal Fire and Rescue Corps (CGDIS) as well as with the Ministry of the Interior in order to strengthen the prevention and management of forest and vegetation fires.
