Project overview 

Mediterranean deciduous oak forests are vital ecosystems that provide numerous benefits:

• Wood production

• Watershed hydrological balance regulation

• Biodiversity conservation

• Soil protection

• Carbon sequestration

• Landscape aesthetics enhancement

However, these forests have been exhibiting signs of decline, including:

• Reduced growth and vigor

• Premature leaf shedding

• Crown dieback

• Increased vulnerability to parasites

• Tree mortality

Climate change and associated droughts are considered primary drivers of this decline in Mediterranean oak forests. Additional factors, such as overgrazing and soil compaction, may exacerbate the problem.

Forest Management Strategies

To address these challenges, forest management and silviculture can implement actions at various spatial and temporal scales. These interventions aim to: maintain forest ecosystem functionality; enhance the resilience of Mediterranean oak forests to climate change By adopting proactive management approaches, it may be possible to mitigate the impacts of environmental stressors and preserve the ecological and economic value of these important forest ecosystems.