More Timber Harvested in 2025 in German State Forests - Hesse's timber harvest surges 5% in 2025 as climate pressures reshape forests

Timber harvesting in Hesse's state forests climbed by 5% in 2025, reaching around 1.49 million cubic meters. The rise follows policy changes and ongoing climate pressures, with hardwood logging seeing the sharpest increase. Forest managers are now adjusting practices to build more resilient woodlands.

The lifting of a temporary felling ban in 2024 led to a noticeable shift in harvesting patterns. Hardwood logging surged by 28%, hitting 570,000 cubic meters, while softwood harvesting dropped by 6% to about 921,000 cubic meters. Beech-dominated forests, once covering roughly 120,000 hectares in 2020, have since shrunk by 5-7% due to both increased logging and storm damage over the past two years.

Late 2025 and early 2026 saw further growth in timber extraction, with volumes rising by 6% compared to the same period a year earlier. Around 725,000 cubic meters were felled during this time. The delayed effects of prolonged drought and heatwaves are also emerging, as weakened trees and stands continue to deteriorate years after the initial stress.

In response, HessenForst is actively reshaping its forests. Through selective thinning, targeted maintenance, and the removal of damaged trees, the organisation aims to create more stable, species-rich mixed forests. These measures are designed to improve resistance against future climate-related challenges.

The changes in harvesting reflect both policy adjustments and the long-term impact of extreme weather. With beech forests declining and hardwood logging on the rise, forest managers are prioritising adaptation strategies. The goal is to ensure Hesse's woodlands remain productive and resilient in a shifting climate.