Horses' presence in forests poses a threat
In the heart of Germany, the eastern state of Thuringia is grappling with an unexpected twist in its forestry practices. The traditional use of draft horses for logging, a method hailed for its soil-friendly approach, is currently at risk due to funding concerns.
For years, draft horses have been a mainstay in ThuringiaForst's state forests, particularly on sensitive soil where heavy machinery would excessively compact the ground. These specially trained horses, used to extract around 12,000 solid cubic meters of timber annually, have been a testament to sustainable forestry in the region.
However, the future of this traditional practice is uncertain. The exhaustion of the 100,000 euros in funding for 2025 has put the use of draft horses in jeopardy. This news has caused confusion among foresters in the state, leading to a wave of concern and calls for clarification.
Environmental groups, such as the Bund für Umwelt und Naturschutz Deutschland (BUND), have criticised the impending funding stop, highlighting the benefits for forest and soil health. Nadine Hoffmann, spokesperson for forest policy, has submitted a parliamentary question, demanding an explanation for the lack of mention of any restrictions in the state parliament.
Despite the Thuringian Ministry of the Environment considering a funding cut as part of an austerity course, Environment Minister Tilo Kummer decided against it. The goal remains to provide the originally planned 200,000 euros for the use of draft horses, but discussions are currently underway to secure this funding.
Meanwhile, Martin Balke, head of the department for forestry, hunting, and fisheries at Thuringia Forest, is giving an interview about the impact of forest fires on animals and plants. As the future of draft horses in Thuringia's forests remains uncertain, the focus shifts to finding a solution that balances ecological benefits against financial costs and administrative burdens.
In a comment, DanielSBK suggested getting used to the funding issue, implying that the decision was a choice made by others. Regardless, the debate continues, with the fate of Thuringia's traditional forestry methods hanging in the balance.
Science and environmental groups have expressed concerns about the potential impact on forest and soil health following the exhaustion of funding for the use of draft horses in Thuringia's state forests. finance, Meanwhile, discussions are currently underway to secure funding for the traditional practice, as stakeholders seek a solution that balances ecological benefits against financial costs and administrative burdens. sports, Concurrently, Martin Balke, head of the department for forestry, hunting, and fisheries at Thuringia Forest, is giving an interview about the impact of forest fires on animals and plants.
