Mecklenburg-Vorpommern launches center to protect forest moors

Mecklenburg-Vorpommern has established the Waldmoorzentrum (Forest Moor Center) at the State Forestry Institute to systematically protect and revitalize forest moors across the region. The initiative targets approximately 82,000 hectares of forest moors, which are part of the state's total 300,000 hectares of moorland.

Currently, nearly all moors in the state are drained, causing them to transition from carbon sinks into significant sources of greenhouse gases. Agriculture and Climate Protection Minister Dr. Till Backhaus stated that drained moors have become the state's largest source of CO2, surpassing transport and industry.

The center's primary objectives include identifying revitalizable forest moors, advising private and municipal landowners on rewetting measures and funding opportunities, and coordinating concrete implementation projects. The center will also focus on networking, public relations, and specialized training in forest moor protection.