Forest functions (selection) Hamburg

In the subject area "Forest Functions" comprehensive information about selected functions of the forest areas in Hamburg is presented. The forest contributes in particular to the protection of natural resources and to human recovery. Forest functions can be defined as the effects and performances of forests and forest management in so far as they generally meet human needs or expectations. Forest functions, on the one hand, meet social requirements and, on the other hand, contribute to the stabilisation of ecosystems. Depending on the purpose, forest functions can be summarized. A general distinction is made between the utility function, the protective functions (including nature and biotope protection), the recovery function and other special functions. Forest areas are depicted in so far as they fulfil one or more functions beyond the normal level. The functions for which validated data or delimitable categories could be achieved are selected. For example, forest areas that are located in flood or water protection areas or in Natura 2000 areas and each fulfil a corresponding protective function are not shown. The data were collected by an expert in 2016 and partially supplemented and adjusted as of 2019. The basis for the expert assessment is the nationwide "Guideline for Mapping the Protective and Recreational Functions of the Forest" of the Forstliche Versuchs- und Forschungsanstalt Baden-Württemberg, Freiburg 2015. Depicted are forest areas that fulfil a function as 1. Recreational forests 2. Protection against erosion 3. regional climate protection forest and 4. Privacy protection forest. Re 1. Included are the forest areas that have been assessed by an expert as important for human recovery as part of a forest function mapping. Only the forest that is actually available to the general public was selected. A distinction is made between the categories of "very important" and "very important". Criteria for designation include accessibility, attractiveness, provision of recreational facilities, low noise and pollution levels and restrictions on the right of access. The classification in the category "of very high importance" takes place regularly when special forestry efforts and expenses are necessary for the maintenance of the recreational function. Re 2. In principle, the forest offers very good protection for the preservation of the soil and its natural development. Only the forest areas that have been assessed by an expert as important for the protection of the soil against erosion as part of a forest function mapping are shown. The selected areas are forested areas that - soils at risk of wind erosion in corresponding exposed locations with high proportions of humus, fine sand and loess, - soils at risk of water erosion with a high gradient and low bindingness, or - on artificially deposited soils stalled. Re 3. All forest areas fulfil a climate protection function. However, depending on the size and structure of the stands as well as the topography, the effect on the adjacent built-up or undeveloped areas varies. Depicted are the forest areas that protect and improve the climate in densification areas through air exchange (regional climate protection forest). Regional climate protection forest is identified taking into account the size of the forest and the size and location of the compaction area, the relief and the main wind direction. A distinction is made between forest areas, which act extensively as a summer cold air source, and forest areas, which can protect lower-lying areas from late frosts as a winter cold air brake. Re 4. Privacy forest not only obscures objects perceived as disturbing, but also protects plants or properties from undesirable insights from the outside. The areas of the forests are shown, which, in their horizontal extension, can fulfil the protective purpose all year round and permanently. There is a difference between the forests, which - protect against inspection of facilities and airports or the - provide privacy for recreational or residential areas.