Reversing the decline of secondary spruce forests in Slovakia\u27s Western Carpathians

The Western Carpathian forests are of extraordinary importance, not only as production forests but also in terms of general and local public interest. Apart from being the source of economically vital products for local people, they play a very important role for neighbouring countries in protecting soil and water resources in which these countries also have an interest. The total forest acreage in Slovakia has increased by more than 10% during the last 40 years, and total growing stock represents 190 m