The recent European Beech Workshop, held on the 22nd and 23rd of October, hosted by Dr. Elena Larysch and Dr. Mareike Hirsch at the University of Freiburg, was a resounding success, bringing together researchers from Switzerland, Slovenia, Belgium, Italy and Germany. Over two days, experts engaged in dynamic discussions and presentations, focusing on the dendroecological and tree ecophysiological complexities of European beech vitality and growth, with a focus on wood anatomy and wood formation.
The workshop highlighted advances in methods and measurement innovations, with sessions dedicated to analysing the impact of climate change, extreme weather events and genetic factors on European beech growth. Collaborative breakout sessions allowed participants to explore methodological frontiers in dendroecology and tree ecophysiology, with the aim of finding and resolving trans-disciplinary gaps. The meeting strengthened cross-border partnerships and reaffirmed a shared commitment to advancing research on the resilience of European beech growth.