The German forests continue to face a critical situation. According to Andreas Bitter, president of the Forest Owners Association (AGDW), extreme weather events such as dryness and drought continue to significantly impact the forest. Bitter made these comments to the “Rheinische Post” ahead of State Minister for Agriculture Alois Rainer (CSU) presenting the forestry status survey this Tuesday.
While the situation varies significantly by region, Bitter noted that after the record hot year of 2024, 2025 has proven to be another very warm year coupled with low rainfall. He observed that “the difficult weather conditions have left their mark on the forest”.
In response, forest owners are systematically restructuring their woods to favor tree species appropriate for the local environment. However, they stressed that reliable political frameworks are essential for this transition. Bitter criticized the proposed EU Restoration Regulation, arguing that because it focuses on historical blueprints and habitat types, it jeopardizes these restructuring efforts. He stated, “Forests cannot be conserved-like a museum exhibit-under the conditions of climate change”. Consequently, he argued that the regulation urgently requires revision.
