Change in the productivity of stands of the spruce (Picea abies L.) mountain Carpathian forests district over a 70-year period

The state and comparison of stands of the spruce mountain Carpathian forests district, which involves a significant portion of the forest fund of the State Enterprise ‘Rakhiv Experimental Forestry’, are analysed based on materials of forest management. The analysis examines changes in the area covered by forest vegetation, the formation peculiarities of the main inventory indicators of forest stands and their evolution over an almost 70-year period of forest management activities in the region. The aim of this study is to analyse the forest management materials of the spruce mountain Carpathian forests, focusing on the forest vegetation area and the main management indices of tree stands over a 70-year period. It highlights the intensive economic impact on stands, evidenced by a decrease in average relative completeness. Sustainable forest management necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the ecosystem, encompassing biological, ecological and socioeconomic aspects. Long-term regional studies and modern forest management approaches are crucial for informed decision-making. In addition, involving local communities, stakeholders and experts in decision-making ensures socially acceptable, economically viable and environmentally sound management practices. It is suggested that mitigating the negative impacts of climate change on natural ecosystems involves forming native stands of rational structure and composition in the mountainous Carpathians, recognising the potential benefits of integrating conifers into beech stands and vice versa.