The Watzerath project in Germany involves reforestation efforts across 2.77 hectares after the removal of diseased spruce trees impacted by bark beetles. The sites, situated at an altitude of approximately 500 meters on a plateau, receive a mixed-species plantation to enhance forest resilience and ecosystem services, including soil protection, carbon sequestration, flood mitigation, and biodiversity conservation. A total of 6,375 trees will be planted during the 2024–2025 season, with a mixture of Douglas fir (4,420), larch (1,250), and beech (705) arranged as follows: conifers planted densely throughout, with beech as border species. The planting method includes full-site preparation with debris mulched and game repellent applied to protect the saplings. On this specific site, 230 trees are planted. The project aligns with regional efforts in Rheinland-Pfalz to diversify forest compositions while retaining a focus on conifers, which are better suited for sustainable and selective harvesting in the long term that will keep this project economically healthy. Adjacent deciduous forests (mainly oak and beech) contribute to natural regeneration and ecological corridors, supporting biodiversity and forest continuity. The land will undergo regular forest management to promote long-term resilience and sustainable growth. Plantation update: - Planting date: Trees were planted in May 2025. - 6,375 trees planted across 2.78 ha, of which 230 trees were sponsored by Go Forest clients. The plantation includes 4,420 Douglas fir (69%), 1,250 larch (20%), and 705 beech (11%), planted in mixed rows with one row of beech for every 7 rows of conifers, on previously prepared ground by a team of 5 professional planters. The final result matched the initial project plan, with all requested species available and of good quality. - Maintenance: Planned works include vegetation clearance, hylobius (weevil) treatment, and game protection measures.

In this project executed during Spring 2023, 7500 trees are planted on a 8,97ha parcel (with some areas fenced) within a 10,51ha total land area. The previous stand on this parcel consisted of 90% spruce trees and 10% larch and beech trees, which were severely damaged by bark beetle. The spruce were removed with stumps left for biodiversity. The goal is to create a stable, climate-adapted mixed forest. Planting organization: a in 2,22 x 3,00m distribution with every 4 rows change of tree species. Tree species: 40% Douglas fir, 35% Larch, 25% Silver fir Altitude: 350-450 meter. Nurseries: Lürssen and Fürst Pückler. When the soil is exposed to sun for too long after a clearing post bark beetle, the situation can become very complex. However, there is biodiversity growing back already: a lot of graminacea (calamagrostis) and rubus fruticosus are covering the ground. This will keep the ground from degrading and desertifying so natural regeneration can take place and some pioneer broadleaves can come back. Plantation update: - Planting date: Trees were planted in March 2023. - 7,500 trees planted: The plantation includes 40% Douglas fir, 35% larch, and 25% silver fir, planted in rows at a spacing of 2.22 x 3m and a density of 1,500 trees per hectare across 8.97 ha. - Site context: The site was previously cleared of diseased spruce, with stumps left in place for biodiversity. The spring of 2023 was rather wet, followed by a dry September. - Biodiversity: The site shows encouraging natural recovery, with graminaceae (calamagrostis) and bramble covering the ground, helping to prevent soil degradation and supporting natural regeneration of pioneer broadleaf species. - Maintenance: Site preparation included removal of diseased trees, fencing of certain areas, and planting carried out by the former forester and seasonal workers.