Syntaxonomical Diversity and Overall Condition of Protective Forest Plantations in the Myasnikovsky District of the Rostov Region

Abstract

Studying the current state of protective forest plantations (PFP) not only in the Rostov region, but in the country as a whole, are necessary due to the deterioration of their sanitary condition, lack of care and restoration. Such events require large financial and physical (labour) investments. That is why the development of a simplified system for assessing the state of the PFP is of crucial importance. The article provides a brief history of the PFP creation, presents the results of the inventory of the PFP in the Myasnikovsky district using various research methods (geobotanical techniques), including remote sensing. In total, 62 geobotanical sites were established to assess the state of protective forest plantations in the area. The detailed route method was used to study and measure 858 shelter belts. The main type of the local PFP are field-protective ones, followed by the gully-side PFP almost twice as small in area, and finally the least prominent of all – roadside and garden-protective ones. The age of most of the PFPs has reached 55–60 years, and measures are needed to be taken for their reconstruction. All forest belts are characterised by the presence of various types of rubbish and sanitary cuttings taking place. In addition to assessing the state of the PFP, a classification of the shelter belts vegetation was carried out. Overall, 6 associations have been identified, including 3 new ones within the framework of 1 alliance, 1 order and 1 class. Within the study area, 30 new locations were identified for 8 plant species listed in the Red List of the Rostov Region (Red List …, 2014). The condition of the forest belts within the study area was assessed as satisfactory, however, there are areas of plantations that require restoration. Based on the information received, recommendations were given for the further management of the PFPs.