OEKB100523 Spatial protective forest analysis

Type
course with continuous assessment
Semester hours
2
Lecturer (assistant)
Pucher, Christoph , Neumann, Mathias , Scheidl, Christian
Organisation
Silviculture
Offered in
Sommersemester 2026
Languages of instruction
Deutsch
Content

The role of forests in preventing and reducing the risks associated with alpine natural hazards is of great importance, particularly in mountainous regions with a high proportion of forest cover and pronounced relief. The protective function of forests varies depending on the type of natural hazard process and is assessed using specific stand indicators. Targeted management measures can be implemented to enhance and optimize this protective function.
Gravitational natural hazards are spatially confined and discrete processes, while the protective effect of forests is both spatially and temporally dynamic. Therefore, a precise spatial analysis of the potential disposition of natural hazards, combined with a spatio-temporal analysis of the condition of protection forests, is crucial. These analyses form the basis for planning and implementing silvicultural measures, technical protective structures, and land management strategies to maintain and improve the protective function of forests.
Objective (expected results of study and acquired competences)

Identification of relevant natural hazard processes (e.g., disposition maps).
Understanding specific protective functions (familiarization with technical, hydrological, and hydraulic protection concepts).
Assessment of the current condition and effectiveness of protection forests in relation to these natural hazards using spatial data (e.g., forest management data, remote sensing).
You can find more details like the schedule or information about exams on the course-page in BOKUonline.