2025 - Forester-Researcher Workshop on Oriental beech

During this forum the results of research on a network of 11 Oriental beech stands across France, Germany, and Switzerland were presented and discussed by 60 participants. Talks given by researchers highlighted the results of a comparative analysis of European and Oriental beech regarding their phenology, growth, and wood anatomy, physiology, and genetics. Extensive research was presented on the hybridization of the two species and its consequences for the long-term survival of the stands. An interesting presentation analyzed the potential of remote sensing to track the spread of Oriental beech in a European beech forest. Foresters managing forests with planted Oriental beech and responsible administrative bodies of the three countries represented the views of implementers and their practical experience. During the workshop session, foresters and researchers considered the potential risks and benefits of using Oriental beech for assisted migration of tree species in Western Europe. A field trip to the forest of Allenwiller, where Oriental beech was introduced over 100 years ago, invigorated the lively exchange. The event closed with introductions of future projects on assisted migration in Europe and a discussion on the development of a protected network of sites.

This multi-lingual event was held at the Hotellerie L'Etoile, Wasselonne, France. All talks were presented in English and simultaneously translated into French and German.

Organization: Researchers of the INRAE Nancy (France), the University of Freiburg (Germany), and the Swiss Federal Research Institute WSL (Switzerland), who have been working on Oriental beech and its hybridization with European beech since 2019.

For more information please contact

Dr Katalin Csilléry