The impact of climate change on the sanitary condition of pine forests in Polissia

The study was aimed at identifying the key factors that affect the sanitary condition of pine forests in Polissia under climate change, as well as developing recommendations for their adaptation to new environmental challenges. For the analysis, 30 trial plots of 0.1 hectare each were laid out, where pine stands of different age classes were studied. The work recorded key climate trends: the average annual temperature increased by 1.2°C over the period 1968-2024, precipitation decreased by 25 millimetres, and the hydrothermal moisture coefficient decreased from 1.3 to 0.9, indicating drought. In regions with a moisture deficit, the proportion of dry-topped trees increased from 8% to 20%, and root sponge damage from 5% to 12%. Decreased soil moisture levels disrupted transpiration, limited photosynthesis and reduced wood growth by 18% compared to healthy trees. It was found that the number of pine sawfly and bark beetles increased by 67% and 150%, respectively, in dry conditions. The analysis showed that mechanical damage caused by strong winds creates conditions for the active spread of pests and diseases. The results obtained indicate that climate change has caused degradation of forest stands due to increased physiological stress of trees. To adapt, the authors propose the selection of resistant pine varieties, the introduction of irrigation systems, monitoring of forest conditions using geographic information technologies, and an increase in the area of forestry in favourable areas. These measures will help preserve forest ecosystems in the region in the face of climate change