Alder woodland carrs in the Hanság
The old alder trees are still standing, their spectacular peculiarity being that they cling to the loose, peaty soil with their characteristic supporting aerial roots. The roots of the trees have not been able to follow the subsidence of the soil, so their root systems partially stand out from the ground.
The alder woodland carr is an important habitat for insects, amphibians and birds.
It is important to prioritise conservation over economic value in these habitats and possibly stop timber production.
In the existing stands, continuous restoration of the natural forest character in accordance with the relevant habitat type, species composition, structure, and age class is of paramount importance.
Avoid great areas of clearfells. If planting new stands of such woodland, try to create the natural forest character.
Leave more deadwood (both standing and fallen) on-site to protect the associated fauna.
Avoid chemical herbicides when dealing with invasive and alien species. Remove stands consisting of non-native tree species, and restore the habitat to original woodland carrs, if possible.
Photos by Linda Magyar, CEEweb for Biodiversity
