CHKO Soutok launches program to protect veteran oaks

The CHKO Soutok Protected Landscape Area, in collaboration with Lesy ČR, is continuing a two-year rescue program to protect critically endangered veteran oaks. The initiative aims to preserve these ancient trees, some over 150 years old, which are vital for the local ecosystem and provide habitats for wood-dependent insects.

To combat the threats of forest thickening, declining groundwater levels, and competition from encroaching vegetation, conservationists are removing competing woody plants around the oaks. This process ensures sufficient light reaches the trunks and crowns, which is essential for both the vitality of the trees and the survival of the critically endangered oak longhorn beetle (ioscelis quercus).

Supported by the PROSPECTIVE LIFE European project and a donation from IKEA, the program plans to clear the surroundings of 228 oak trees across the Soutok, Tvrdonice, and Mikulov forestry districts by the end of the year. Experts must carefully manage the removal of vegetation to avoid causing a light shock to the trees after decades of shade.