Environment Ministry allows manual felling of trees in Šumava core zones

The Czech Environment Ministry has allowed manual felling of trees infested with bark beetle in the core zones of the Šumava National Park. Environment Minister Tomáš Chalupa told reporters on Thursday that he had banned the use of biocides and aerial spraying over the park; any felled trees would also have to remain on the site. Logging will take place in some 12,800 hectares of the park’s most precious part; the minister said the area would be smaller than last year.

The decision came after the park’s new director, Jan Stráský, asked the ministry to allow massive logging in all parts of Šumava to prevent the spreading of the bark beetle. A number of experts believe Mr Stráský’s approach is wrong and several scientists had left the park’s expert council in protest.