Hessen forests face new challenges as drought damages beech trees

Severe drought and high temperatures in 2026 have caused significant damage to beech forests in Germany, particularly in the Hessen region. Unlike previous years when spruce trees were the primary concern due to bark beetles, beech trees are now suffering from extreme drought stress because they struggle to reduce water loss.

HessenForst is shifting its strategy from simple reforestation to forest transformation under existing canopies. To manage damaged stands, foresters are harvesting trees earlier than usual to ensure the wood is used for high-quality, long-lasting products before natural regeneration can occur. The full extent of the damage will likely not be assessable until after the 2027 growing season.

The Hessischer Waldbesitzerverband has criticized the EU Nature Restoration Law, arguing that its emphasis on native species like the beech places an impossible burden on forest owners, as these specific trees are currently highly vulnerable to climate-driven heat and drought.