Changes in the species composition in the forests of the Czech Republic in response to changing policies and their consequences

The species composition in the forests of the Czech Republic has been changed from its original natural state. Today's species composition is often referred to as "unsuitable", forming unstable forest stands with high risks of abiotic and biotic damage. The aim of this study was to analyze available sources of adequate information about the natural species composition in the forests of the Czech Republic in order to compare the results with today's situation. The historical developments in Czech forest policy and forest management affecting the changes in species composition were analyzed as well. Based on the analyses, the necessary objectives and methods were suggested. The methodology of Forestry and Game Management Research Institute was used. Possible future characteristics were analyzed. Based on necessary change and reconstruction of species composition proposed by the Government, the future forestation requirements were calculated. These numbers were compared with currently available sources. Inevitable economical consequences affecting forest owners were also calculated. Based on the analyses, the forest policy tools were suggested