Importance, protection and management of chestnut pastures in Slovakia

The sweet chestnut (Castanea sativa Mill.) is one of the oldest introduced tree species in Slovakia, with a long history of cultivation particularly in the Little Carpathians, Upper Nitra, Modrý Kameň, and Slovak Ore Mountains regions. Since the Middle Ages, it has been an integral part of pasture woodlands and orchards, combining economic, ecological, and cultural values. Chestnut pastures created specific mosaic-like habitats with high biodiversity, providing space for plants and animals, stabilizing soil, and improving microclimatic conditions. Thanks to its deep root system, the chestnut also contributed to water retention and carbon sequestration, thus playing an important role in the landscape.