A lack of rainfall and persistent heat over recent weeks has placed considerable strain on Luxembourg’s woodlands. Martine Neuberg from the Nature and Forest Agency says that certain trees are starting to change colour and shed prematurely, she explains that it is clear they are suffering from stress and have stopped supplying their leaves with water since June.
The effects of the drought are particularly visible in the Ellergronn natural reserve in Esch-sur-Alzette, where both ponds and marshes are drying out. According to Paul Zimmermann, a forester in the area, the problem became visible in late spring. He explained that the springs that used to feed these ponds and wetlands have stopped flowing and now, because of evaporation, there is even less water left.
Due to the stress caused by heat and water shortages, trees are not able to perform vital tasks. Thus producing oxygen and offering shade less effectively. Neuberg warned that if the forests do not keep growing, they cannot produce as much oxygen as before. Experts caution that these are among the long-term consequences of climate change.
Compared to last year the situation is clearly worse, with Neuberg warning that trees could grow out less next year. Despite the seriousness of the situation, Neuberg emphasised that fear is not a good strategy. Instead, armed with what they know today, they are working on adapting forests so they can continue providing essential ecosystem services for future generations.
