Protection forests and hydrogeological hazards
We study the role of forests in reducing natural hazards in mountain environments. Their protective function depends on the position of the forest relative to the hazard process and exposed elements, as well as on stand structure. Our aim is to identify where forest cover provides a measurable protective benefit and how that function can be maintained over time.
Research questions
- Where does forest presence effectively contribute to risk reduction?
- Which forest structures provide an effective and persistent protective function?
- How can protection be maintained during silvicultural interventions or after disturbance?
Approaches and methods
We combine risk-based GIS analysis, hazard modelling, forest structure inventories, remote sensing and stand stability assessments. Spatial analyses explicitly consider the source–forest–exposed element chain.
Related projects
Lombardy Region – protection forests · Campo dei Fiori · RiForestAzione · Branzi · Tuscan-Emilian Apennines · Levissima / Sanpellegrino
Selected publications
- Vacchiano G. et al. (2016). Assessing the Effect of Disturbances on the Functionality of Direct Protection Forests.
- Piazza N. et al. (2025). Growing trees decrease the frequency of avalanche release in an alpine afforestation in the Swiss Alps.
- Vacchiano G. et al. (2015). Effect of avalanche frequency on forest ecosystem services in a spruce–fir mountain forest.