New forest instead of grassland – a second mixed forest is taking shape in Drelsdorf
With our project in Schleswig-Holstein, we are actively creating new forests – right where climate-resilient mixed forests are urgently needed. On the approximately 14-hectare site, purchased by Schleswig-Holstein Landesforsten (AöR) in 2022 and previously used as grassland, a new and ecologically valuable mixed deciduous forest is gradually taking shape. It withstands the challenges of climate change while providing new habitats for plants and wildlife.
Drelsdorf 1 marked the starting point: In 2023, ForTomorrow began the first afforestation on a 4.6-hectare section. Around 18,000 trees from native, site-appropriate sources are now growing there.
Drelsdorf 2 is the next milestone: On a further 7 hectares, we were planting new trees, gradually bringing the forest to life. This brings the total contiguous forest area in Drelsdorf to 14 hectares, gradually transforming it into a stable, ecologically valuable mixed forest – a forest that strengthens the climate, biodiversity, and habitats alike.
In the heart of Drelsdorf, a very special forest is taking shape: a moor-forest-like area in the center, surrounded by colorful trees and shrubs that make the edges ecologically diverse.
Before planting began, the area was carefully prepared – drainage systems adjusted, planting spots marked, and a protective fence installed. On 7 hectares, volunteers and the ForTomorrow team planted around 45 000 young trees from local, native stock. Step by step, a stable, climate-resilient mixed forest is emerging, providing new habitats for plants and wildlife.
The Schleswig-Holstein State Forestry (AöR) will take care of the forest’s growth and maintenance. Regular inspections, clearing, and additional plantings ensure the young trees thrive. Over time, a structurally rich forest without monocultures will develop – each tree growing individually and eventually becoming valuable timber that replaces fossil resources, while the forest strengthens climate resilience, biodiversity, and habitats.
Our objectives for this site
Being part of a larger area, our objectives for this site are the same as for Drelsdorf 1:
- Long-term climate protection through durable wood products and CO2 sequestration
- New forest formation on former grassland areas: climate-resilient, close to nature, and high-performing
- Promotion of biodiversity through structurally rich mixed forests instead of monocultures
- Water retention by removing old drainage systems and developing bog forest-like areas
- Forest education and recreation: long-term space for people to experience nature