Active protection of yew trees (Taxus baccata) at selected Natura 2000 sites in Poland

The populations of the yew that were assessed are considered to warrant active protection, given the degree of threat posed to many of the trees should tending work not be carried out. Tending should be applied in the case of both the mature trees and those of younger generations. Mechanical protection of individual saplings and low undergrowth should be resorted to more often than hitherto, and there is also a need for whole Reserves to gain more effective protection, in the event of an increase in the numbers of game animals, and hence also in the level of damage potentially or actually inflicted on trees. Quality assessments in regard to the preservation plantations for yew confirm the possibility of ex-situ protection making a contribution to the reinstatement of the species in Polish forests. However, attention needs to be paid to the criteria underpinning the choice of plot location for the introduction of saplings, as well as stand species composition and the provenance and quality of the material available for planting. Nevertheless, the results of project implementation leave no doubt as to the value of continued comprehensive work associated with monitoring of the natural development of yew populations, as well as with the regeneration of resources of this species in forest ecosystems.