The Harz forest (Stolberg) in Germany

Learn more about our reforestation project in Harz (Stolberg) in central Germany and the work that we are doing in the forest.

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About the Harz (Stolberg) forest

The Harz (Stolberg) forest, nestled in the heart of Germany, south of the Harz mountains, is a vast ancient forest massif and one of Germany's most important forest ecosystems. Mainly populated by beech and spruce trees, a storm hit this area in 2018, followed by a drought, causing significant damage. In recent years the forest has lost over 50% of its tree stand.

Since 2023, we have been developing a reforestation project aiming to introduce a mix of forest species better adapted to future climatic conditions, and to prevent similiar natural disasters. Our land is located in the south of the 300-million-year-old low mountain range. What had been turned to barren moonscapes due to drought and pests, we are now reforesting over several years focusing on climate resilient forest management.

In 2024, 2025 and 2026, we will plant a mix of tree species on different areas. The mixture of local species such as Sycamore Maple, Oak and Larch, as well as species adapted to more extreme conditions such as Douglas fir and European beech, is intended to create a structurally rich, resilient forest that also promotes biodiversity. Open landscapes and wetlands will also be taken into the forestry plan.

Key information

Project start date: Jul 18, 2024

Certification: PEFC

Land area: 6 ha

Social action: Partnership on innovation with the landowner.

Biodiversity features: Mixed species, continuous cover forestry

Temporarily closed to the public, the reopening is scheduled on 25/12

EcoTree’s initiatives

The overall goal is to establish 80% deciduous trees and 20% conifers within the entire forest area. Currently, the Harz Forest in Stolberg mainly consists of red beeches, some of which are already damaged, and a few naturally regenerating oaks. Against this backdrop, the focus is on planting various other tree species, including Sycamore Maple, Chestnut and various conifers such as Larch, Silver fir, and Douglas fir.

Before planting, the destroyed forest areas were mulched to clear the soil. The first plantings were carried out by hand in the spring of 2024. Soil conditions and biodiversity are monitored, with regular adjustments made if necessary as we continue to plant in the coming years.