engleski

Virgin forest of Čorkova uvala in the light of providing non-wood forest functions

The best known Croatian beech-fir virgin forest of Čorkova Uvala in the Plitvice Lakes National Park is the first virgin forest in Croatia to be scientifically explored. The decisive role in the shaping of the structure of this forest is played by soil depth and relief. Depending on karst phenomena, shallow brown soil on limestone (calcocambisol) and deep lessivated soil (luvisol) alternate in a mosaic-like pattern. The diversity of pedomicrosites has resulted in varied conditions for the growth of silver fir (Abies alba Mill.), common beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) and common spruce (Picea abies Karst.). This is responsible for the formation of an uneven-aged or selection structure of the virgin forest in the initial, optimal and ageing stage, which discriminates this virgin forest from other virgin beech-fir forests in Europe. Research into the virgin forest development has shown that non-wood forest functions, especially those related to environmental protection, are not fulfilled in several of its developmental stages. It was found that, in comparison with a natural managed forest, a virgin forest does not produce non-wood functions as well as the former. Old growth stands should be preserved in principal forest ecosystems of Croatia to serve as sites for forestry and other research, while other forestland should be adequately managed according to natural principles to ensure optimal commercial and non wood functions.

virgin forest; nature-based forest management; non-wood forest functions; Čorkova uvala; Plitvice Lakes National Park

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