ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS OF FORESTRY ACTIVITIES IN THE CONTEXT OF ECOSYSTEM SERVICE PROVISION

Abstract

A comprehensive environmental analysis of forest conditions was conducted, and priority directions for their improvement were identified, taking into account the conservation and restoration of ecosystem services. The condition of forest stands was assessed, forest thinning and sanitation felling practices were analyzed, and the effectiveness of measures aimed at protecting forest vegetation from pests and diseases was evaluated. Based on this, recommendations were developed to enhance the ecological resilience of forest ecosystems. It was established that during 2014–2022, forest dieback in the forests of the Horodotske Forestry Branch covered an area of 5.1 ha (127 m³), indicating a localized decline in regulating and supporting ecosystem services, particularly carbon sequestration, microclimate regulation, and biodiversity maintenance. All affected areas were represented by Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) stands damaged by root rot, which led to stand weakening and partial loss of their protective and provisioning functions. The volumes of clear and selective sanitary fellings carried out in 2014–2022 were directly determined by the actual sanitary condition of forest stands and corresponded to real restoration needs, thereby contributing to the stabilization of ecosystem processes and recovery of forest productivity. Among forest diseases, the most widespread were root rot, stem decay, false aspen tinder fungus, and European mistletoe, the spread of which negatively affects the quality of provisioning ecosystem services (timber) and weakens the regulating functions of forest ecosystems. Monitoring of pests and disease outbreaks is conducted systematically, ensuring timely response to emerging threats and minimizing losses of ecosystem services. The results indicate that forest management practices in the Horodotske Forestry generally comply with the principles of sustainable natural resource use and are aimed at maintaining the ecological stability of forest ecosystems. It was confirmed that the sanitary condition of stands, forest thinning and sanitation measures, as well as forest protection activities, directly influence the level of ecosystem service provision. The identified disease outbreaks and cases of forest dieback highlight the need to strengthen preventive measures to minimize losses of ecosystem services.