Ardennes spruce forests could vanish within 10 years due to heat, scientists warn

The forests of the Ardennes, a region in Belgium, are facing an existential threat from persistent heat and drought. The Norway spruce, which makes up half of Wallonia's forests, is particularly vulnerable. Scientists warn that within ten years, these trees could disappear entirely from the region.

The primary culprit is the bark beetle, a small insect that thrives in warmer climates. While cold and wet periods traditionally kept the beetle in check, these conditions are becoming shorter due to climate change. The Norway spruce, imported from Central Europe 100 years ago, is already more susceptible to the beetle due to its warmer new habitat.

"The Ardennes forests with all those Norway spruces have little future left in Belgium," explained Koen Vandekerkhove of the Institute for Nature and Forest Research (INBO). "If we have a few more of these summers, all Norway spruces could be gone from Wallonia within ten years." He noted that mass die-offs of Norway spruce have already been observed in countries like the Czech Republic and Germany, necessitating a shift to different tree species.

While other native species like beech, birch, and oak are not facing immediate extinction, they are also suffering from the prolonged heat and lack of rain. The dry soil stresses these trees, causing leaves to discolor and fall. Birch trees, often smaller and mixed within forests, are proving particularly susceptible, though their decline may be less noticeable than that of larger trees like beeches.

Beech trees in drier areas like the Kempen region or in urban environments are also struggling, especially those planted in open landscapes without natural shelter. Many landowners may be forced to cut down these vulnerable trees and replace them with more resilient species. The situation highlights the profound impact of climate change on Belgium's natural landscape.

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The Ardennes forests with all those Norway spruces have little future left in Belgium. If we have a few more of these summers, all Norway spruces could be gone from Wallonia within ten years.