Storm \u00c9owyn was the strongest storm ever recorded in Ireland, with wind speeds topping 184 km\/h. The impact was severe: around 26,000 hectares of forest were damaged. Much of the damage occurred in mature conifer stands growing on wet mineral and peat soils. Sitka spruce was by far the most affected species. Forest structure and management history played a clear role in vulnerability \u2013 about half of the damaged area had been thinned at least once, raising questions about how timing and intensity of thinning influence resilience. As discussed in the webinar, factors like mixed species, varied age classes, and selective thinning can strengthen forest resilience, though no forest is entirely immune to disturbance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
What can we learn from other countries\u2019 experience?<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n In North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW), one of Germany\u2019s most forested regions, storms, droughts, and bark beetle outbreaks have left a visible mark. In response, the region developed a comprehensive reforestation strategy focused on resilience. Instead of replanting the same vulnerable species, forests are being rebuilt with a mix of four or more tree species, carefully selected to suit local soil and climate conditions. These \u201cforest development types\u201d also account for different forestry goals \u2013 from biodiversity and water retention to recreation and timber production. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Support for forest owners goes beyond written guidelines \u2013 which is particularly important because more than half of NRWs forests is privately owned, with many small-scale owners. On-site advice, workshops, and even online courses help owners make informed decisions. A key digital tool, Waldinfo.NRW<\/a> (in German), offers site-specific guidance, including climate scenario projections and tree suitability maps. This approach puts long-term forest health first \u2013 with a focus on climate stability, provision of diverse ecosystem services, and forest vitality. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Policy and the power of networks<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n One recurring theme was the need for policies that don\u2019t slow down action, but help respond quickly and effectively when disturbances hit. Another important factor highlighted was the role of expert networks and coordinated planning. These networks are essential to ensure that knowledge and lessons learned from past disturbances are not lost between events. Initiatives like the Forest Risk Facility and the Integrate Network are seen as essential platforms to ensure cross-border learning and coordinated action. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Storms like \u00c9owyn expose weaknesses \u2013 but also reveal where we can improve. By rethinking planting strategies, improving management transparency, and giving forest owners the tools to both better prevent and respond, the sector can transform storm recovery into long-term resilience. While extreme events may be inevitable, the way we prepare and react is very much in our hands. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/integratenetwork.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/after-the-storm-webinar-1024x576.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/integratenetwork.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/nrw-after-the-storm-1024x576.png\")
<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"