Diversity as a Survival Strategy
The forest around Altaussee — like many others — is facing major challenges. Rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and new pests are putting the ecosystem to the test. One key to ensuring the forest remains resilient in the future is biodiversity.

The greater the variety of tree species, plants, and animals living in the forest, the better the system can adapt to changing conditions. Diversity means stability — not just ecologically, but also in the fight against the impacts of climate change.

As a forester, one thing is clear to me: this ecological stability will be more important in the future than any short-term economic consideration. We need a holistic view of the ecosystem — with space for deadwood, natural processes, and animal helpers. Only then can the forest remain a vibrant, climate-resilient habitat — for all who live in it and all who benefit from it.

“It’s not timber volume that determines the future of the forest — but its diversity.”