SMArt – the forest, the moor, and species protection

The forest as a laboratory for the forestry of the future

How can a managed forest provide space for both biological diversity, species protection, and timber production? This is what the project ”SMArt – the forest, the mule, and species protection” aims to investigate in practice. On approximately 15 hectares of forest land outside Lönsboda, a model area for multi-layered continuity forest will be developed – a forestry where the forest is managed without traditional clear-cutting and where natural values play a guiding role.

Through selective thinning and harvesting, older trees will be favored, the variation in the forest will increase, and more dead wood will be created for different species. The project will also investigate how forest grazing with cattle, including with virtual fences, can be used as a long-term conservation method. At the same time, about 600 meters of a historic hiking trail will be restored, making the area more accessible to visitors.

The goal is not only to strengthen the natural values at the site. The area will become an open demonstration and learning environment where landowners, foresters, businesses, students, and other interested parties can take part in new working methods. At least three excursions or training sessions will be conducted, and the project's experiences will also be disseminated through film.

The board's assessment

Decision date: 2026-06-23
Total selection criteria: 950 points
The board's justification: The project implements concrete measures to restore and develop forest habitats, strengthen biological diversity, and improve ecological connections in a cohesive forest landscape. Through the restoration of hiking trails and the development of the area as a demonstration and learning environment, accessibility to nature and opportunities for knowledge dissemination will also increase. The project brings together landowners, community organizations, businesses, educational actors, and public expertise around joint efforts for conservation and sustainable forestry. Collaboration contributes to the exchange of experiences, method development, and dissemination of knowledge to more actors than those directly involved. The board assesses that the project has good conditions to create long-term values through continued management of the area, recurring use for education and excursions, and strong local engagement. The project is therefore prioritized for support.