Ecohydrological characterisation of spring forests in the Vlaamse Ardennen
The springs and spring forests in the Vlaamse Ardennen are protected at European level through the Natura 2000 network. However, the regional conservation status of these habitats is currently unfavourable. Among other things, they are affected by eutrophication, desiccation, sedimentation and erosion.
For this reason, Natuur en Bos asked INBO to investigate where and to what extent the proposed nature conservation targets can be achieved, how far we are from those targets today, and what restoration measures are needed to achieve them.
This study maps the ecohydrological system across six action areas: the Kluisbos, Beiaardbos, Muziekbos, Brakelbos, Trimpontbos and Burreken. The focus was on identifying abiotic constraints that hinder the recovery of springs and spring forests, and on formulating climate-adaptive measures to ensure the favourable conservation status of both the habitats and the associated species, such as the fire salamander, brook lamprey and bullhead.
The report proposes concrete measures such as the reforestation of steep, erosion-prone plots or adjustments to land use. These measures are in line with a sustainable and climate-resilient landscape management approach. In addition, the report contains practical recommendations that policymakers and site managers can use in the restoration and management of the spring forests in the Vlaamse Ardennen.
Wouter Depaepe, Piet De Becker
Picture above: A small spring in the Kluisbos study area (photo: INBO)