From mid-July to mid-August 2015, 5 forestry experts analysed 1,200 trees to ascertain if they are in proper health and, in so doing, get an overview of the forests as a whole.

The results were not encouraging. A third (32.9%) of Luxembourg’s forest is significantly damaged whilst another third (36.5%) was classified as slightly damaged.

The Luxembourg forest is generally considered too old as its 9,500 hectares of beech exceeded the optimal harvest age. This advanced age means there is an increased risk of pests. The local forests consist mainly of four species: Oak, Oak Coppice, Softwood and Beech.

Photo by: Public Domain Pictures/Lode Van de Velde