Proceedings: International conference Reforestation Challenges

This book of Proceedings compiles 35 papers presented by researchers and scientists at The International Conference on Reforestation Challenges. Topics included various aspects of reforestation: 1) Planning and management of reforestation programs; 2) Stocktypes and seedlings quality; 3) Monitoring reforestation successes; 4) Planting and seedling-site interaction; 5) Species, intra-species and seed source selection and 6) Plant health in nurseries and plantations. In addition to country reports on current and past reforestation efforts and success, a new plans and strategies are presented. Market potential of poplar plantations is analyzed.

Nursery operations affect seedlings quality by changing of seedlings density and container type, as well as by controlling the light conditions. Seedlings quality attributes are strongly related, both morphological and physiological. Endangered species, like elms can be successfully reproduced by mass clonal production. Variability between provenances should be concerned in initial stage of reforestation programs by selection of appropriate source of forest reproductive material. A local heat potential can be used for site-species matching. Local species, like European white elm can be used for wetland restoration and some exotic species are tested for potential use. Field success can be improved by use of microorganisms and site preparation, including soil conditioning and mulching techniques. Different methods of site preparations were presented, with emphasis on economy behind these operations. Innovative sowing technique from the air can be used on inaccessible sites. Management have a significant effect on plantation development and success in growing phase. Hydrophilic forests depend on river water and groundwater level. Additional ecosystem service of forests is carbon accumulation after afforestation of bare land.