East Tyrol reforestation efforts target 13,000 hectares of damaged forest

Reforestation efforts are underway in East Tyrol to restore forest protection functions following significant damage caused by windthrow, snow pressure, and bark beetle infestations. Approximately 5.5 million cubic meters of damaged wood have been recorded, affecting roughly 13,000 hectares—about one-fifth of the total forest area in East Tyrol.

Between 2020 and 2025, approximately 6.5 million new trees have been planted, averaging about 1.06 million per year. The initiative focuses on creating climate-resilient mixed stands rather than rapid regreening to better withstand future environmental challenges.

Federal Minister Norbert Totschnig and Deputy Governor Josef Geisler recently inspected the Daberbach catchment area in Oberlienz to assess progress. Since 2019, approximately 38 million euros in subsidies have been allocated for these efforts, with the federal forest fund providing significant support to local landowners and the state of Tyrol.