Link between science, policy and practice
Trees and forests are under pressure due to drought, acidification, fragmentation, overgrazing, and climate change. Probos supports forest managers in making their forests future-proof. We do this by unlocking practical (management) knowledge and developing tools that contribute to climate-smart forest management. We act as the link between science, policy, and practice, focusing on knowledge integration: ensuring that developed knowledge and policy are implemented in practice. Where we identify knowledge gaps, we actively contribute to knowledge development—both independently and in collaboration with partners.
In 'Climate-smart forestry' our activities are focussed on the following topics. For most of these themes we collaborate closely with the field of 'Data Provisioning'.
Enhancing forest reslilience
Increasing the resilience of forests allows them to better withstand stressors such as climate change and nitrogen deposition. This is a key component of both the National and Provincial Forest Strategies. Probos contributed to the National Forest Strategy and several provincial strategies. To help the implementation of these strategies, Probos and its partners assessed the current state of forests in various provinces. Based on available data and literature, we analyzed which measures are necessary for our forests to increase their resilience.
Additionally, Probos collaborates with various partners in the "Climate-Smart Forest and Nature Knowledge Programme" to conduct research focused on climate-smart forestry. We combine scientific research with applied research, such as pilots and field labs. All research and pilot information is collected on the website 'Gereedschapskist Klimaatslim Bos- en Natuurbeheer' (translates as Climate-Smart Forest and Nature Management Toolbox), where forest managers can find practical tools for daily forest management.
Grazing Pressure and Wildlife Management for Forest Regeneration and Biodiversity
A well-functioning forest ecosystem includes various developmental stages of different tree species: from seedlings and saplings to mature and dead trees. In many Dutch forests, this cycle is disrupted by a high browsing pressure; natural regeneration of deciduous trees is minimal. As a result, biodiversity declines and forest development stagnates, leading to an incomplete and less resilient forest ecosystem. This has a negative impact on ecosystem services such as biodiversity, recreation, and timber production.
Probos addresses this issue together with partners. For instance, we’ve helped establish a grazing pressure monitoring network on the Veluwe, and we're working with forest researchers and managers on a monitoring protocol and app for standardized evaluation of planting and natural regeneration. We have also published factsheets on wildlife protection methods, highlighting their advantages and disadvantages.
Tree Species Composition
Enhancing forest resilience to climate change while increasing productivity in terms of CO₂ sequestration is a core element of climate-smart forest management. Many forest managers are searching for tree species that can deal with the effects of climate change. Probos regularly publishes factsheets on (potentially) climate-resilient tree species. We also developed the 'Keuzehulp boomsoortenmenging' (Tree Species Selection Tool) to help managers ask the right questions and make well-informed decisions on whether or not to introduce new species to their forests.
Invasive Alien Species
Invasive alien species are causing significant problems in many parts of the Netherlands and are often difficult to control. Probos develops and collects knowledge on the control and management of invasive species, with a specific focus on Japanese knotweed. We conduct field trials to test the effectiveness of various control methods, including biological control.
To assist land managers in choosing appropriate methods and identifying key considerations, we developed a Decision Tree. Additionally, together with partners, Probos created the 'Landelijk protocol omgaan met Aziatische duizendknopen' (National Protocol for Managing Japanese Knotweed), offering guidance to prevent further spreading of the species.
To meet the need for practical, cost-effective approaches and best practices for various invasive species, Stichting Probos, Vereniging Stadswerk, Wageningen UR, and Christel! launched the Invasive Alien Species Knowledge Network in 2020. This network provides an objective platform with validated, independent information on practical species-specific approaches. The platform bundles, validates, and translates knowledge from multiple sources into practical guidance for land managers.
Cultural heritage as a source of inspiration
Thanks to the efforts of Probos, forest managers are more and more engaged to include cultural history in forest and nature management. While many cultural relics have disappeared or been unintentionally damaged, numerous beautiful examples remain across Dutch natural and forested areas. These tell the story of the landscape and its historical uses.
Probos helps forest managers to include cultural heritage and archaeology in their long-term visions and daily management. We do this by offering expert knowledge through practical guides, brochures, and training courses.
Projects in Collaboration with the Data Services Field:
