Climate Change and Forestry: The City Forest of Marbach in Focus

The 2026 Forestry Management Plan: A Step Toward Climate Resilience

The Marbach city forest is a central component of the local environmental and climate policy. With the presentation and approval of the 2026 Forestry Management Plan, the city has issued a clear signal for sustainable forest management and climate protection. The plan was unanimously adopted on 09.03.2026 and focuses on adaptation to climate change, protection of biodiversity, and ensuring traffic safety in the forest.

Climatic Challenges in the Marbach City Forest

The forest in the Ludwigsburg district, and particularly the Marbach city forest, is strongly affected by the impacts of climate change. Extreme weather events, such as the drought period of 2025, have significantly affected the water storage capacity of the forest soil. Rising temperatures increase evaporation rates and reduce plant-available precipitation – a combination that puts trees under drought stress and makes them vulnerable to pest infestation.

The long-term development of water supply for forest trees is negative. The extreme dryness of spring 2025 led to drought conditions in the topsoil. Even though individual months, such as July 2025, brought above-average precipitation, they could not compensate for the losses. The consequences are noticeable: Pre-damaged trees are particularly at risk, which is why preventive measures are necessary.

Measures for Climate Stabilization of the City Forest

The 2026 Forestry Management Plan includes targeted measures to stabilize the forest. On six hectares, maintenance measures will be carried out to make the forest more resilient to climatic extreme events. In addition, protective measures for existing young tree cultures will be implemented to strengthen the forest’s regenerative capacity.

Another focus is the regional marketing of timber. By utilizing wood from the city forest, not only ecological added value is created, but also a contribution to climate protection is made. The timber market is currently positive, which improves marketing opportunities. Wood with quality limitations will be auctioned as firewood, thus efficiently using resources.

In addition to these economic aspects, nature conservation is a central part of the plan. A project to map anthills in the forest underlines the importance of biodiversity. In addition, forest education and circular economy are actively promoted to raise public awareness of sustainable ways of dealing with nature.

Financing and Support through Funding Programs

The implementation of the Forestry Management Plan is supported by several funding measures. The federal program "Climate-Adapted Forest Management" approved a grant of €25,433 for 2026. In addition, the city receives an additional burden compensation of €8,193 per year from the state of Baden-Württemberg. These funds are crucial to cover the costs of maintenance and protective measures.

Outlook: A Future-Proof City Forest

The 2026 Forestry Management Plan is a milestone in Marbach's climate policy. It shows how a city can responsibly manage its natural resources – especially in times of climate change. The measures adopted in March 2026 are not only reactive but also proactive: they aim to stabilize the city forest for future challenges while simultaneously securing its ecological and economic significance.

The delay in the implementation of the EU Regulation EUDR (Deforestation-Free Products) also provides time to prepare for the new regulations. Overall, it becomes clear: The Marbach city forest is not only a green space – it is a central actor in local climate protection.