Denmark's Forests

As Denmark (and many other European countries) began to grow and urbanize, the use of wood was paramount in expanding the country.  This rapid utilization of forest resources left only 3% of woodland areas by 1830.  By then, there was a realization that preservation and reforestation was a must.  In this way, reforestation has become a primary land use for Denmark.  Even in areas that could be turned into extremely profitable real estate, reforestation has become a priority.  It is interesting to note that 69% of forests in Denmark are privately owned and managed.  The state owns the rest, but there is little difference in use as I understand it.  If you have been following my blog/class escapades at all, you have probably noticed that Denmark's commitment to sustainability is closely tied with its protection of green spaces.  I think these forests are another example of this, and thus prime real estate is reserved for forests.

Today we visited one of these forests situated around a freshwater lake.  It was a beautiful day, many people were out rowing and enjoying the walk around the lake.  There were a few houses along the lake, but the majority of the area was dense woodland.  These trees (primarily beech) were planted in an effort to help reforest the country in the post-industrialization period.