1993R0926 — EN — 18.04.1994 — 001.001

This document is meant purely as a documentation tool and the institutions do not assume any liability for its contents

Amended by:

▼B

COMMISSION REGULATION (EEC) No 926/93

of 1 April 1993

amending Regulation (EEC) No 1696/87 laying down certain detailed rules for the implementation of Council Regulation (EEC) No 3528/86 on the protection of the Community's forests against atmospheric pollution

THE COMMISSION OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES, Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Economic Community, Having regard to Council Regulation (EEC) No 3528/86 of 17 November 1986 on the protection of the Community's forests against atmospheric pollution ( 1 ), as last amended by Regulation (EEC) No 2157/92 ( 2 ), and in particular Article 2 (1) and (2) thereof, Whereas, pursuant to Article 2 (1) of Regulation (EEC) No 3528/86, the aim of the Community scheme is to help the Member States to establish, on the basis of common methods, a periodic inventory of damage caused to forests, in particular by atmospheric pollution; Whereas the detailed rules for the implementation of the said Article and in particular those relating to the gathering, comparability and transmission of the data collected are to be laid down in accordance with the procedure provided for in Article 2 (3) of Regulation (EEC) No 3528/86; Whereas one of the main reasons for the loss of vitality of the Community's forests is the persistent input of atmospheric pollutants; whereas, in addition to the direct damage to trees, the indirect effects of atmospheric pollutants through the soil are one of the main reasons for the deterioration of the condition of forest ecosystems; Whereas an examination of the soil of the Community's forests would provide basic information on the chemical condition of the soil and the nutrient supply to trees as well as the influence of pollutant inputs on the condition of the soil; whereas in this way account would be taken of the increasing significance of soil for an improvement in the condition of forests; whereas a modification of Commission Regulation (EEC) No 1696/87 is necessary to take in account these tasks when defining the common rules for the implementation of Council Regulation (EEC) No 3528/86; Whereas a modification of the Annexes to Commission Regulation (EEC) No 1696/87 is necessary in order to ensure the transfer of data in a digital format and to improve the general transparency of the agreed common methodology; Whereas the measures provided for in this Regulation are in accordance with the opinion of the Standing Forestry Committee, HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:

Article 1

Commission Regulation (EEC) No 1696/87 ( 3 ) is hereby amended as follows:

1. the following Article is added: ‘Article 1a 1. In addition to the annual inventory of damage caused to forests provided for in Article 2 of Regulation (EEC) No 3528/86, the condition of the soil in the Community's forests shall be recorded and assessed over the same network of observation points. 2. Soil samples shall be taken in accordance with an objective sampling method and analysed in accordance with established methods. 3. By 31 December 1995, Member States shall forward to the Commission in a standardized form the data collected and analysed for each observation point as specified in Annex VIb. 4. Technical details pertaining to the provisions of this Article are set out in Annex II.’ ;

2. the following third indent is inserted in Article 2 (1): ‘to carry out a soil inventory at Community level’ ;

3. the following Article is added: ‘Article 3a 1. Member States shall draw up a report on the condition of the soil in their respective areas and forward them to the Commission by 31 December 1995. 2. The contents of the reports shall comply with the requirements set out in Annex V.’ ;

4. the Annexes and their amendments are replaced by the Annexes hereto.

Article 2

This Regulation shall enter into force on the third day following its publication in the Official Journal of the European Communities.

This Regulation is binding in its entirety and directly applicable in all Member States.

ANNEX I

COMMON METHODS FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A PERIODIC INVENTORY OF DAMAGE CAUSED TO FORESTS

(Article 2 (1))

I. General remarks

The purpose of the scheme mentioned in Article 2 (1) is to establish a periodic inventory of the health status of forests in the Member States of the Community by collecting representative data on the extent and intensity of forest damage and to monitor its development.

This inventory is to be carried out at Community level on the basis of a 16 kilometres × 16 kilometres grid network covering the entire area of each Member State. In addition, Member States may collect information from denser networks in order to obtain representative data at a national or regional level for the presentation of their annual report. For both observation levels (Community and national or regional level) the common methods (described below) regarding the choice of the tree sample and the observation criteria shall be applied.

The inventory is to be undertaken annually between the end of the formation of new needles and leaves and before autumnal leaf discolouration.

II. Inventory methodology

II.1. Selection of sample points

Forests within the meaning of this inventory are forest tree stands with at least 20 % canopy closure at rotation age (closed forests according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) definition). However, for certain types of woodland which are characteristic of the Mediterranean region (maquis and similar woodland, stands of Quercus suber and Quercus ilex, etc.), this canopy closure should be at least 10 %. The minimum size of the forests to be sampled be 0,5 hectare.

At Community level, data should be collected by a field inventory using systematically distrubuted sample points with a grid density of 16 kilometres × 16 kilometres and covering the entire area of each Member State. The 16 kilometres × 16 kilometres grid network is established following the latitude and longitude coordinate system in north-south and east-west directions from the reference point: latitude 50°15′15′′ longitude 09°47′06′′. The coordinates of these points have been transmitted to each Member State by the Commission.

Grid intersection points falling outside a forested area (according to the above definition) should be rejected as sample points although they must be reconsidered, if in the future a new stand is established.

Member States which have already established a systematic network may retain the corresponding observation points of these networks for the purpose of establishing the Community network (points coinciding with or those closest to the 16 kilometres × 16 kilometres intersection points) provided that the common methods described below are applied. Member States which do not have or have only partially established such a systematic network shall establish or extend new networks in order to complete the Community network. In this case, a sample point falling in a forest (according to the above definition) should be located precisely at its predetermined geographical location.

Should the sample point be inaccessible because of the relief or the density of the vegetation (e.g. maquis), that point shall be replaced by the nearest point bordering a path (this should be at a maximum distance of 8 km from the theoretical sample point).

In addition, at places where the crowns of the trees cannot be visually examined at the sample point, notably in maquis or similar woodland, or where for any other reason, the sample plot cannot be established at the point, the point shall be shifted within the stand following an objective (unbiased) procedure.

The fact that the point has been shifted and the reason for doing so must be entered on Form 1a.

If the sample point falls within an area of maquis or within a similar stand this fact must be clearly indicated on the same form.

II.2. Selection of sample trees

At each sample point, sample trees should be selected according to a stringently defined, objective and unbiased statistical procedure (e.g., four point cross cluster orientated along the main compass directions with corner points at 25 m distance from the grid point using a six-tree sampling process on each subplot or sample trees chosen following a spiral from the plot centre). In younger dense stands where individual crowns are not assessable, the selection of sample trees should be based on a defined geometrical process. This process should be repeated until a sufficient number of trees with assessable crowns has been found.

The following selection criteria are to be taken into account:

— Member States may decide on the number of trees to be assessed at each point; however, the sample may not consist of less than 20 trees nor more than 30 and the number must remain constant,

— all tree species are to be included in the assessment. Sample trees should have a minimum height of 60 cm. Only predominant, dominant and co-dominant trees (Kraft: stem classes 1 to 3) qualify as sample trees for the purpose of damage assessment. Trees of these social groups with broken tops do not qualify as sample trees,

— trees removed as part of management operations shall be replaced by new sample trees selected according to an unbiased procedure. If clear-cut, the sample point ceases to exist until a new stand has been established,

— the centre of a sampling unit should be marked for reassessment for the purpose of subsequent inventories. Sample trees shall be permanently marked,

— where the sample point falls within a coppice, only the dominant stem shall be assessed for each stump sampled. Where the area involved is one of composite forest in which coppice stands predominate, the sample trees shall be selected from within those stands,

— if high forest predominates, the sample trees shall be selected from among the dominant trees of the reserve.

II.3. Assessment of sample trees

Visual assessment of defoliation

Defoliation shall be estimated in 5 % steps in relation to a tree with full foliage in local conditions.

The classification of trees into degrees of defoliation shall be carried out during the observation and shall be registered in 5 % steps.

Visual assessment of discolouration

Discolouration shall be estimated in 5 % steps in relation to a healthy tree in local conditions.

The classification of trees into degrees of discolouration shall be carried out after the observations have been made.



Class Discolouration Indicative percentage of leaves discoloured 0 None or negligible 0 to 10 1 Slight discolouration 11 to 25 2 Moderate discolouration 26 to 60 3 Severe discolouration > 60 4 Dead

II.4. Data collection

In addition to the above forest damage assessments (defoliation and discolouration), the parameters listed below are the mandatory minimum for data collection:

for each plot (Form 1a):

— descriptive code: — — country, — date of observation, — observation point number, — actual latitude, longitude coordinates,

— site data: — — availability of water to principal species, — humus type, — altitude, — orientation,

— stand data: — — mean age of dominant storey,

— soil data: — — soil unit;

for each tree in the plot (Form 1b):

— plot number,

— sample tree data: — — tree number (visible marks), — tree species, — defoliation, — discolouration, — damage due to easily identifiable causes (insect, fungi, abiotic agents…), — identification of damage type, — observations on the tree in the plot.

The common census form of this Annex (Forms 1a and 1b) can be used for the data collection.

For the transmission of the mandatory data to the Commission, the format set out in Annex VIa shall be used for the 16 kilometres × 16 kilometres Community network. Countries with a limited number of plots (less than 20) may submit the information also on paper.

II.5. Training of field crews

Field crews should consist of two professionals, at least one should be a diploma-level/graduate forester as responsible crew leader. Prior to the beginning of the annual field season, all inventory crews must undergo a period of intensive theoretical and practical training in measurement and assessment procedures and filling out the various forms.

II.6. Check survey

As customary in national forest inventories, a fraction of e.g. 5 to 10 % of field sample points must be remeasured by an independent check-survey crew.

This control survey concerns all measurements and assessments made by the field crews. In case of significant discrepancies, the necessary adjustments of instruments or clarification of instructions and their application must be immediately arranged to avoid serious systematic errors.

Explanation Forms 1a and 1b

Code lists for the common forest damage inventory data to be forwarded to the Commission

The following instructions and codes are to be adopted by the Member States to complete the common observation Forms 1a and 1b.

Form 1a (information on plot level)

(1) Country



01: France (FR) 02: België — Belgique (BL) 03: Nederland (NL) 04: Deutschland (DL) 05: Italia (IT) 06: United Kingdom (UK) 07: Ireland (IR) 08: Danmark (DK) 09: Ellas (EL) 10: Portugal (PO) 11: España (ES) 12: Luxembourg (LX)

(2) Observation point number

The observation point number corresponds to the number indicated for the intersection of the grid at this point on the list of latitude and longitude coordinates provided by the Commission (Forests and Forestry Division). Deviations from the numbers of this list shall be described clearly.

(3) Date of observation

The date of observation is to be completed in the following order:





Day Month Year 0 8 0 9 9 2

(4) Latitude-/longitude coordinates

Fill in the six-figure latitude and longitude coordinates of the observation point. These coordinates will differ from the coordinates of the corresponding point of the network provided by the Commission when the observation point in question has been replaced as instructed in paragraph II.1 of this Annex,



± Degrees Minutes Seconds — latitude + 5 0 1 0 2 7 — longitude − 0 1 1 5 3 2

the first box is used to indicate a + or - coordinate

(5) Availability of water to principal species



1: Insufficient 2: Sufficient 3: Excessive

(6) Humus type



1: Mull 2: Moder 3: Mor 4: Anmor 5: Peat 6: Other 7: Raw (Roh)

(7) Altitude



1: ≤ 50 m 2: 51 to 100 m 3: 101 to 150 m 4: 151 to 200 m 5: 201 to 250 m 6: 251 to 300 m 7: 301 to 350 m 8: 351 to 400 m 9: 401 to 450 m 10: 451 to 500 m 11: 501 to 550 m 12: 551 to 600 m 13: 601 to 650 m 14: 651 to 700 m 15: 701 to 750 m 16: 751 to 800 m 17: 801 to 850 m 18: 851 to 900 m 19: 901 to 950 m 20: 951 to 1 000 m 21: 1 001 to 1 050 m 22: 1 051 to 1 100 m 23: 1 101 to 1 150 m 24: 1 151 to 1 200 m 25: 1 201 to 1 250 m 26: 1 251 to 1 300 m 27: 1 301 to 1 350 m 28: 1 351 to 1 400 m 29: 1 401 to 1 450 m 30: 1 451 to 1 500 m 31: > 1 500 m

(8) Orientation



1: N 2: NE 3: E 4: SE 5: S 6: SW 7: W 8: NW 9: flat

(9) Mean age of dominant storey (years)



1: ≤ 20 2: 21 to 40 3: 41 to 60 4: 61 to 80 5: 81 to 100 6: 101 to 120 7: > 120 8: Irregular stands

(10) Soil unit



Fluvisols 101 Eutric Fluvisols 102 Calcaric Fluvisols 103 Dystric Fluvisols 104 Mollic Fluvisols 105 Umbric Fluvisols 106 Thionic Fluvisols 107 Salic Fluvisols Gleysols 108 Eutric Gleysols 109 Calcic Gleysols 110 Dystric Gleysols 111 Andic Gleysols 112 Mollic Gleysols 113 Umbric Gleysols 114 Thionic Gleysols 115 Gelic Gleysols Regosols 116 Eutric Regosols 117 Calcaric Regosols 118 Gypsic Regosols 119 Dystric Regosols 120 Umbric Regosols 121 Gelic Regosols Leptosols 122 Eutric Leptosols 123 Dystric Leptosols 124 Rendzic Leptosols 125 Mollic Leptosols 126 Umbric Leptosols 127 Lithic Leptosols 128 Gelic Leptosols Arenosols 129 Haplic Arenosols 130 Cambic Arenosols 131 Luvic Arenosols 132 Ferralic Arenosols 133 Albic Arenosols 134 Calcaric Arenosols 135 Gleyic Arenosols Andosols 136 Haplic Andosols 137 Mollic Andosols 138 Umbric Andosols 139 Vitric Andosols 140 Gleyic Andosols 141 Gelic Andosols Vertisols 142 Eutric Vertisols 143 Dystric Vertisols 144 Calcic Vertisols 145 Gypsic Vertisols Cambisols 146 Eutric Cambisols 147 Dystric Cambisols 148 Humic Cambisols 149 Galcaric Cambisols 150 Chromic Cambisols 151 Vertic Cambisols 152 Ferralic Cambisols 153 Gleyic Cambisols 154 Gelic Cambisols Calcisols 155 Haplic Calcisols 156 Luvic Calcisols 157 Petric Calcisols Gypsisols 158 Haplic Gypsisols 159 Calcic Gypsisols 160 Luvic Gypsisols 161 Petric Gypsisols Solonetz 162 Haplic Solonetz 163 Mollic Solonetz 164 Calcic Solonetz 165 Gypsic Solonetz 166 Stagnic Solonetz 167 Gleyic Solonetz Solonchaks 168 Haplic Solonchaks 169 Mollic Solonchaks 170 Calcic Solonchaks 171 Gypsic Solonchaks 172 Sodic Solonchaks 173 Gleyic Solonchaks 174 Gelic Solonchaks Kastanozems 175 Haplic Kastanozems 176 Luvic Kastanozems 177 Calcic Kastanozems 178 Gypsic Kastanozems Chernozems 179 Haplic Chernozems 180 Calcic Chernozems 181 Luvic Chernozems 182 Glossic Chernozems 183 Gleyic Chernozems Phaeozems 184 Haplic Phaeozems 185 Calcaric Phaeozems 186 Luvic Phaeozems 187 Stagnic Phaeozems 188 Gleyic Phaeozems Greyzems 189 Haplic Greyzems 190 Gleyic Greyzems Luvisols 191 Haplic Luvisols 192 Ferric Luvisols 193 Chromic Luvisols 194 Calcic Luvisols 195 Vertic Luvisols 196 Albic Luvisols 197 Stagnic Luvisols 198 Gleyic Luvisols Lixisols 199 Haplic Lixisols 200 Ferric Lixisols 201 Plinthic Lixisols 202 Albic Lixisols 203 Stagnic Lixisols 204 Gleyic Lixisols Planosols 205 Eutric Planosols 206 Dystric Planosols 207 Mollic Planosols 208 Umbric Planosols 209 Gelic Planosols Podzoluvisols 210 Eutric Podzoluvisols 211 Dystric Podzoluvisols 212 Stagnic Podzoluvisols 213 Gleyic Podzoluvisols 214 Gelic Podzoluvisols Podzols 215 Haplic Podzols 216 Cambic Podzols 217 Ferric Podzols 218 Carbic Podzols 219 Gleyic Podzols 220 Gelic Podzols Acrisols 221 Haplic Acrisols 222 Ferric Acrisols 223 Humic Acrisols 224 Plinthic Acrisols 225 Gleyic Acrisols Alisols 226 Haplic Alisols 227 Ferric Alisols 228 Humic Alisols 229 Plinthic Alisols 230 Stagnic Alisols 231 Gleyic Alisols Nitisols 232 Haplic Nitisols 233 Rhodic Nitisols 234 Humic Nitisols Ferralsols 235 Haplic Ferralsols 236 Xanthic Ferralsols 237 Rhodic Ferralsols 238 Humic Ferralsols 239 Geric Ferralsols 240 Plinthic Ferralsols Plinthosols 241 Eutric Plinthosols 242 Dystric Plinthosols 243 Humic Plinthosols 244 Albic Plinthosols Histosols 245 Folic Histosols 246 Terric Histosols 247 Fibric Histosols 248 Thionic Histosols 249 Gelic Histosols Anthrosols 250 Aric Anthrosols 251 Fimic Anthrosols 252 Cumulic Anthrosols 253 Urbic Anthrosols

(11) Other observations

Relevant information concerning the plot shall be stated here.

Form 1b (information on tree level)

(12) Observation point number

See explanation item 2 in Form 1a.

(13) Sample tree number

The tree sample at each observation point for the evaluation of forest damage must consist of a minimum of 20 sample trees. However, the number of sample trees may not exceed 30. Care should be taken to ensure that the same number is used for the same tree in the consequent years.

(14) Species (Reference Flora Europaea)



Broadleaves 001: Acer campestre 002: Acer monspessulanum 003: Acer opalus 004: Acer platanoides 005: Acer pseudoplatanus 006: Alnus cordata 007: Alnus glutinosa 008: Alnus incana 009: Alnus viridis 010: Betula pendula 011: Betula pubescens 012: Buxus sempervirens 013: Carpinus betulus 014: Carpinus orientalis 015: Castanea sativa (C. vesca) 016: Corylus avellana 017: Eucalyptus sp. 018: Fagus moesiaca 019: Fagus orientalis 020: Fagus sylvatica 021: Fraxinus angustifolia spp. oxycarpa (F. oxyphylla) 022: Fraxinus excelsior 023: Fraxinus ornus 024: Ilex aquifolium 025: Juglans nigra 026: Juglans regia 027: Malus domestica 028: Olea europaea 029: Ostrya carpinifolia 030: Platanus orientalis 031: Populus alba 032: Populus canescens 033: Populus hybrides 034: Populus nigra 035: Populus tremula 036: Prunus avium 037: Prunus dulcis (Amygdalus communis) 038: Prunus padus 039: Prunus serotina 040: Pyrus communis 041: Quercus cerris 042: Quercus coccifera (Q. calliprinos) 043: Quercus faginea 044: Quercus frainetto (Q. conferta) 045: Quercus fruticosa (Q. lusitanica) 046: Quercus ilex 047: Quercus macrolepis (Q. aegilops) 048: Quercus petraea 049: Quercus pubescens 050: Quercus pyrenaica (Q. toza) 051: Quercus robur (Q. penduculata) 052: Quercus rotundifolia 053: Quercus rubra 054: Quercus suber 055: Quercus trojana 056: Robinia pseudoacacia 057: Salix alba 058: Salix caprea 059: Salix cinerea 060: Salix eleagnos 061: Salix fragilis 062: Salix sp. 063: Sorbus aria 064: Sorbus aucuparia 065: Sorbus domestica 066: Sorbus torminalis 067: Tamarix africana 068: Tilia cordata 069: Tilia platyphyllos 070: Ulmus glabra (U. scabra, U. montana) 071: Ulmus laevis (U. effusa) 072: Ulmus minor (U. campestris, U. carpinifolia) 073: Arbutus unedo 074: Arbutus andrachne 075: Ceratonia siliqua 076: Cercis siliquastrum 077: Erica arborea 078: Erica scoparia 079: Erica manipuliflora 080: Laurus nobilis 081: Myrtus communis 082: Phillyrea latifolia 083: Phillyrea angustifolia 084: Pistacia lentiscus 085: Pistacia terebinthus 086: Rhamnus oleoides 087: Rhamnus alaternus 099: Other broadleaves Conifers 100: Abies alba 101: Abies borisii-regis 102: Abies cephalonica 103: Abies grandis 104: Abies nordmanniana 105: Abies pinsapo 106: Abies procera 107: Cedrus atlantica 108: Cedrus deodara 109: Cupressus lusitanica 110: Cupressus sempervirens 111: Juniperus communis 112: Juniperus oxycedrus 113: Juniperus phoenicea 114: Juniperus sabina 115: Juniperus thurifera 116: Larix decidua 117: Larix kaempferi (L. leptolepis) 118: Picea abies (P. excelsa) 119: Picea omorika 120: Picea sitchensis 121: Pinus brutia 122: Pinus canariensis 123: Pinus cembra 124: Pinus contorta 125: Pinus halepensis 126: Pinus heldreichii 127: Pinus leucodermis 128: Pinus mugo (P. montana) 129: Pinus nigra 130: Pinus pinaster 131: Pinus pinea 132: Pinus radiata (P. insignis) 133: Pinus strobus 134: Pinus sylvestris 135: Pinus uncinata 136: Pseudotsuga menziesii 137: Taxus baccata 138: Thuya sp. 139: Tsuga sp. 199: Other conifers

(15) Defoliation

Defoliation figure for each sample tree expressed as a percentage (in steps of 5 %) compared with a tree with complete foliage. The actual percentage is used.







0 = 0 % 5 = 1 to 5 % 10 = 6 to 10 % 15 = 11 to 15 %.

(16) Discolouration codes



0: no discolouration (0 to 10 %) 1: slight discolouration (11 to 25 %) 2: moderate discolouration (26 to 60 %) 3: severe discolouration (> 60 %) 4: dead

(17) Easily identifiable causes of damage



T1 = game ad grazing T2 = presence or traces of an excessive number of insects T3 = fungi T4 = abiotic agents (wind, snow, frost, drought) T5 = direct action of man T6 = fire T7 = known local/regional pollutant T8 = other

(18) Identification of damage type

Where possible, further identification of the damage type should be added e.g. for insects: the species or group (e.g. ‘bark beetles’).

(19) Other observations on tree level

Any additional observations which may be of interest shall be clearly noted on the form.

(e.g. possible influencing factors (recent drought, temperature extremes); other damage/stress symptoms).

(20) Replacing of sample trees

In the case where trees of the original sample have been removed (extraction, windthrow, etc.) and replaced in the sample, these replaced trees receive a new number (above 30) and shall be mentioned under observations.

ANNEX II

COMMON METHODS FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF AN INVENTORY OF THE FORESTS SOIL CONDITION

(Article 1a)

I. General remarks

The purpose of the scheme mentioned in Article 1a is to establish an inventory of the forests soil condition in the Member States.

The inventory is to be carried out at Community level on the basis of the 16 × 16 km grid network covering the entire area of each Member State. In addition, Member States may collect information from denser networks in order to obtain representative data at a national or regional level for the presentation of their report. For both levels (Community and national/regional) the common methods (described below) shall be adopted.

This Annex is based on the results of the Soil Expert Panel of the UN-ECE/ICP on assessment and monitoring of air pollution effects on forests. Reference is made to manuals prepared by this expert group.

The inventory shall be undertaken from the beginning of 1993 till the end of 1995; Member States shall submit the analysis results to the Commission before 31 December 1995. Soil condition data, which were collected and analysed before 1993, but after 1 January 1985 could also be used if the methods as described below have been applied.

II. Inventory methodology

II.1. Selection of sample plots

The Member States are already using a 16 km × 16 km network of permanent plots for the inventory of the tree vitality (see Annex I (II.1) to this Regulation). The same plots will be used.

II.2. Plot information

To ensure a good comparability between the tree vitality inventory data and the soil sampling data, it is strongly recommended that the following plot information is collected from the sample plot and submitted to the Commission (see Form 2a):

— descriptive code: — — country, — observation point number, — date of sampling, — actual latitude and longitude coordinates,

— site data: — — altitude, — soil unit.

II.3. Selection of sample location

Soil samples will be collected at the centre of the tree vitality inventory plots, and will be statistically representative for the situation of the actual sampling area. The soil samples will be collected from a profile pit and/or taken from bores. Care should be taken to avoid any disturbance of roots belonging to sample trees.

When it is not possible to take the soil samples at the exact centre of the permanent plot, the location for the sampling will be relocated according to a stringently defined, objective and unbiased statistical procedure.

II.4. Pedological characterization of the sample plots

A pedological characterization shall be made for each sample plot, using bores from the plot centre. The soil unit will be determined and reported in the plot file. If a detailed profile description is made, this profile description shall be submitted as an annex to the forest soil condition report.

It is advised to make the profile description according to the FAO guidelines for profile descriptions (FAO, 1990) in the bufferzone. Care should be taken that the profile description(s) is/are made on a location which is representative for the actual sampling area.

It is recommended that the bulk density is determined from undisturbed soil to enable the calculation of the total nutrient contents.

II.5. Method of sampling

The soil samples shall be collected by depth or by horizon. For every sampled layer or horizon, one representative composite sample will be collected or several samples; the number of subsamples collected for the compositie sample and the sampling date shall be reported.

The organic layers (O- und H-) ( 4 ) are sampled separately. In case the sampling is done by fixed depth, the following layers are to be used:

— 0 to 10 cm (it is advised to sample 0 to 5 and 5 to 10 separately)

— 10 to 20 cm.

II.6. Transport, storage and preparation

The samples shall be transported and stored in such a way that chemical changes are minimized.

The procedures of this transport and storage (including waiting periods) shall be reported. Where applicable the problems and deviations of these procedures shall be reported in detail. It is advised to store part of the sample in a soil bank for comparative use with future sampling (e.g. in 10 years).

Before the samples are analysed the samples have to be prepared. Large items (> 2 mm) have to be removed, the samples have to be dried (at a maximum of 40 °C), and milled or sieved.

II.7. Analysis methods

In the ‘Manual on methodologies of forest soil sampling and analysis’ prepared by the Soil Expert Panel of the ICP-forests and approved by the respective Task Force meeting, the approved methods for the analysis of the various soil parameters are described.

It is advised to use the approved methods. In case other (national) methods are applied, the comparability of the analysis results shall be reported in detail together with the presentation of the analysis results. The inventory of the forest soil condition will distinguish between mandatory and optional parameters. Member States are free to analyse more, all, or part of the optional parameters. The analysis results shall be reported using Form 2b (for mandatory analysis) and Form 2c (for optional analysis).

Explanation Forms 2a, 2b and 2c

Code lists of the data for the inventory of the forest soil condition to be forwarded to the Commission

Form 2a: Information on plot level (to be completed at the time of sampling in the field)

(1) Country (codes and abbreviations)



01: France (FR) 02: België — Belgique (BL) 03: Nederland (NL) 04: Deutschland (DL) 05: Italia (IT) 06: United Kingdom (UK) 07: Ireland (IR) 08: Danmark (DK) 09: Ellas (EL) 10: Portugal (PO) 11: España (ES) 12: Luxembourg (LX)

(2) Observation point number

The observation point number corresponds to the number indicated for the intersection of the grid at this point on the list of latitude and longitude coordinates provided by the Commission (Forests and Forestry Division) and/or replacements. The observation points numbers shall correspond to the plot numbers of the tree vitality inventory (Annex I) in the corresponding year.

(3) Date of sampling

The date of sampling is to be completed in the following order:





Day Month Year 0 8 0 9 9 2

(4) Latitude-/longitude coordinates

Fill in the full six-figure latitude and longitude coordinates of the observation point. These coordinates will differ from the coordinates of the corresponding point of the network provided by the Commission when the observation point in question has been replaced as instructed in paragraph II.1 of Annex I.



± Degrees Minutes Seconds — latitude + 5 0 1 0 2 7 — longitude − 0 1 1 5 3 2

The first box is used to indicate a + or - coordinate.

(5) Altitude



1: ≤ 50 m 2: 51—100 m 3: 101—150 m 4: 151—200 m 5: 201—250 m 6: 251—300 m 7: 301—350 m 8: 351—400 m 9: 401—450 m 10: 451—500 m 11: 501—550 m 12: 551— 600 m 13: 601— 650 m 14: 651— 700 m 15: 701— 750 m 16: 751— 800 m 17: 801— 850 m 18: 851— 900 m 19: 901— 950 m 20: 951—1 000 m 21: 1 001—1 050 m 22: 1 051—1 100 m 23: 1 101—1 150 m 24: 1 151—1 200 m 25: 1 201—1 250 m 26: 1 251—1 300 m 27: 1 301—1 350 m 28: 1 351—1 400 m 29: 1 401—1 450 m 30: 1 451—1 500 m 31: > 1 500 m

(6) Soil unit



Fluvisols 101 Eutric Fluvisols 102 Calcaric Fluvisols 103 Dystric Fluvisols 104 Mollic Fluvisols 105 Umbric Fluvisols 106 Thionic Fluvisols 107 Salic Fluvisols Gleysols 108 Eutric Gleysols 109 Calcic Gleysols 110 Dystric Gleysols 111 Andic Gleysols 112 Mollic Gleysols 113 Umbric Gleysols 114 Thionic Gleysols 115 Gelic Gleysols Regosols 116 Eutric Regosols 117 Calcaric Regosols 118 Gypsic Regosols 119 Dystric Regosols 120 Umbric Regosols 121 Gelic Regosols Leptosols 122 Eutric Leptosols 123 Dystric Leptosols 124 Rendzic Leptosols 125 Mollic Leptosols 126 Umbric Leptosols 127 Lithic Leptosols 128 Gelic Leptosols Arenosols 129 Haplic Arenosols 130 Cambic Arenosols 131 Luvic Arenosols 132 Ferralic Arenosols 133 Albic Arenosols 134 Calcaric Arenosols 135 Gleyic Arenosols Andosols 136 Haplic Andosols 137 Mollic Andosols 138 Umbric Andosols 139 Vitric Andosols 140 Gleyic Andosols 141 Gelic Andosols Vertisols 142 Eutric Vertisols 143 Dystric Vertisols 144 Calcic Vertisols 145 Gypsic Vertisols Cambisols 146 Eutric Cambisols 147 Dystric Cambisols 148 Humic Cambisols 149 Galcaric Cambisols 150 Chromic Cambisols 151 Vertic Cambisols 152 Ferralic Cambisols 153 Gleyic Cambisols 154 Gelic Cambisols Calcisols 155 Haplic Calcisols 156 Luvic Calcisols 157 Petric Calcisols Gypsisols 158 Haplic Gypsisols 159 Calcic Gypsisols 160 Luvic Gypsisols 161 Petric Gypsisols Solonetz 162 Haplic Solonetz 163 Mollic Solonetz 164 Calcic Solonetz 165 Gypsic Solonetz 166 Stagnic Solonetz 167 Gleyic Solonetz Solonchaks 168 Haplic Solonchaks 169 Mollic Solonchaks 170 Calcic Solonchaks 171 Gypsic Solonchaks 172 Sodic Solonchaks 173 Gleyic Solonchaks 174 Gelic Solonchaks Kastanozems 175 Haplic Kastanozems 176 Luvic Kastanozems 177 Calcic Kastanozems 178 Gypsic Kastanozems Chernozems 179 Haplic Chernozems 180 Calcic Chernozems 181 Luvic Chernozems 182 Glossic Chernozems 183 Gleyic Chernozems Phaeozems 184 Haplic Phaeozems 185 Calcaric Phaeozems 186 Luvic Phaeozems 187 Stagnic Phaeozems 188 Gleyic Phaeozems Greyzems 189 Haplic Greyzems 190 Gleyic Greyzems Luvisols 191 Haplic Luvisols 192 Ferric Luvisols 193 Chromic Luvisols 194 Calcic Luvisols 195 Vertic Luvisols 196 Albic Luvisols 197 Stagnic Luvisols 198 Gleyic Luvisols Lixisols 199 Haplic Lixisols 200 Ferric Lixisols 201 Plinthic Lixisols 202 Albic Lixisols 203 Stagnic Lixisols 204 Gleyic Lixisols Planosols 205 Eutric Planosols 206 Dystric Planosols 207 Mollic Planosols 208 Umbric Planosols 209 Gelic Planosols Podzoluvisols 210 Eutric Podzoluvisols 211 Dystric Podzoluvisols 212 Stagnic Podzoluvisols 213 Gleyic Podzoluvisols 214 Gelic Podzoluvisols Podzols 215 Haplic Podzols 216 Cambic Podzols 217 Ferric Podzols 218 Carbic Podzols 219 Gleyic Podzols 220 Gelic Podzols Acrisols 221 Haplic Acrisols 222 Ferric Acrisols 223 Humic Acrisols 224 Plinthic Acrisols 225 Gleyic Acrisols Alisols 226 Haplic Alisols 227 Ferric Alisols 228 Humic Alisols 229 Plinthic Alisols 230 Stagnic Alisols 231 Gleyic Alisols Nitisols 232 Haplic Nitisols 233 Rhodic Nitisols 234 Humic Nitisols Ferralsols 235 Haplic Ferralsols 236 Xanthic Ferralsols 237 Rhodic Ferralsols 238 Humic Ferralsols 239 Geric Ferralsols 240 Plinthic Ferralsols Plinthosols 241 Eutric Plinthosols 242 Dystric Plinthosols 243 Humic Plinthosols 244 Albic Plinthosols Histosols 245 Folic Histosols 246 Terric Histosols 247 Fibric Histosols 248 Thionic Histosols 249 Gelic Histosols Anthrosols 250 Aric Anthrosols 251 Fimic Anthrosols 252 Cumulic Anthrosols 253 Urbic Anthrosols

(7) Other observations

Relevant information concerning the plot shall be stated here.

Form 2b: Mandatory sampling results (to be completed after the analysis in the laboratory)

Observation point number

See explanation item 2 in form 2a.

(8) Sampling layer



O: Organic layer H: Organic layer M01: Mineral layer (0—10 cm) M05: Mineral layer (0—5 cm) (advised) M51: Mineral layer (5—10 cm) (advised) M12: Mineral layer (10—20 cm)

(9) Sampling method code

It is mandatory to submit the data by layer. The sampling could (if well documented) be carried out differently. The following codes shall be used to indicate the sampling method:



0 no deviation from approved sampling method. 1 sampled as advised. 9 sampled in a different way, analysis results have been recomputed. A full explanation of the used method, including the recomputation shall be included in the forest soil condition report.

(10) Date of analysis

The date of the start of the analysis shall be completed in the same way as the date of sampling (item 3).

(11) Soil analysis

The following parameters are mandatory (Man) in the soil sample analysis of the organic layers (H/O) and mineral layers (M):



Organic H/O Mineral M01, M12 (M05, M51) Approved methods pH (CaCl2) Man Man Labex 8703-01-1-1 and ISO/TC190/SC3/GT8 C-Org Man Man Dry combustion N Man Man Dry combustion P Man Extr: Aqua regia K Man Extr: Aqua regia Ca Man Extr: Aqua regia Mg Man Extr: Aqua regia OrgLay Man Volume (cylindric)-dry-weight CaCO3 Man AFNOR X 31-105 (if pH (CaCl2) > 6)

(12) Sampling analysis method (SAM)

In the first line (sequence number 0) the sampling analysis method is indicated for each parameter.



0 sample is analysed according the method as indicated in the approved method. 1 sample is analysed according to an alternative method (to be indicated by the Soil Expert Panel). 9 sample is analysed by a different method and/or results have been recomputed.

In the latter two cases (SAM = 1 or 9) a full description of the used analysis methods and/or recomputations shall be given in an annex to the soil condition report.

Form 2c: Optional sampling results (to be completed after the analysis in the laboratory)

Observation point number

See explanation item 2 in form 2a.

(8) Sampling layer



O Organic layer H Organic layer M01 Mineral layer (0—10 cm) M05 Mineral layer (0—5 cm) (advised) M51 Mineral layer (5—10 cm) (advised) M12 Mineral layer (10—20 cm)

(9) Sampling method code

It is mandatory to submit the data by layer. The sampling could (if well documented) be carried out differently. The following codes shall be used to indicate the sampling method:



0 no deviation from approved sampling method. 1 sampled as advised. 9 sampled in a different way, analysis results have been recomputed. A full explanation of the used method, including the recomputation shall be included in the forest soil condition report.

(10) Date of analysis

The date of the start of the analysis shall be completed in the same way as the date of sampling (item 3).

(11) Soil analysis

The following parameters are optional (Opt) in the soil sample analysis of the organic layers (H/O) and mineral layers (M):



Organic H/O Mineral M01, M12 (M05, M51) Approved methods CaCO3 Opt AFNOR X 31—105 (if pH (CaCl2) (CaCl2) > 6] Na Opt Extr: Aqua regia Al Opt Extr: Aqua regia Fe Opt Extr: Aqua regia Cr Opt Extr: Aqua regia Ni Opt Extr: Aqua regia Mn Opt Extr: Aqua regia Zn Opt Extr: Aqua regia Cu Opt Extr: Aqua regia Pb Opt Extr: Aqua regia Cd Opt Extr: Aqua regia Ac-Exc Opt LABEX L8703-26-1-1 BCE Opt Bascomb ACE Opt Bascomb CEC Opt Bascomb BaseSat Opt LABEX L8703-26-1-1

(12) Sampling analysis method (SAM)

In the first line (sequence number 0) the sampling analysis method is indicated for each parameter.



0 sample is analysed according to the method as indicated in the approved method. 1 sample is analysed according to an alternative method (to be indicated by the Soil Expert Panel). 9 sample is analysed by a different method and/or results have been recomputed.

In the latter two cases (SAM = 1 or 9) a full description of the used analysis methods and/or recomputations shall be given in an annex to the soil condition report.

ANNEX III

APPLICATIONS FOR AID FROM THE COMMUNITY IN RESPECT OF THE MEASURES TO BE CARRIED OUT PURSUANT TO ARTICLE 2 OF REGULATION (EEC) NO 3528/86 AND ITS AMENDMENTS

Application for aid must be presented in accordance with Annex A to Commission Regulation (EEC) No 526/87 together with a summary of the information listed below and the completed table as included in this Annex as Form 3a.

▼M1

For each of the measures to be carried out in accordance with Article 1 (tree vitality on an annual basis), Article 1a (soil sampling) and Article 1b (chemical content of needles and leaves) information on the following items shall be given:

▼B

(1) Short description of the measures

(2) Applicant

Links between the applicant and the measures.

(3) Agency responsible for carrying out the measures

Object and scope of the agency's main activities.

(4) Detailed description of the measures

where:

(a) the measures relate both to carrying-out the periodic inventory of forest damage and to establishing or extending the Community network of observation points. — description of existing situation, — geographical location and area of the region(s) concerned (+ cartographical document), — number of observation points corresponding to the Community network of points (Form 3a), — detailed description of the sampling procedure used at point level (number of trees, marking, etc.), — indication of timetable for the execution of the projected measures (Form 3b);

(b) the measures relate to the establishment and execution of an inventory of the soil condition in forests of the Community at the observation points of the Community network of 16 km × 16 km. — description of the existing situation, — number of observation points corresponding to the Community's network, which are to be included in the soil condition inventory (Form 3a), — detailed description of the sampling procedures used at point level (number of single samples, soilprofile description, etc.), — detailed description of parameters to be determined and the analysis method to be applied including a clear description of any calibration, correction, and/or recalculation needed to make the results compatible with the results analysed according to the default methods, — indication of the timetable for the execution of the projected measures (Form 3b).

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(c) the measures relate to the establishment and executions of a survey on the chemical content of needles and leaves of the Community at the observation plots of the Community network of 16 km × 16 km. 1. Description of the existing situation. 2. Plot number corresponding to the Community's network, which are to be included in the survey on the chemical content of needles and leaves (Form 3a). 3. Detailed description of the sampling procedures used at plot level (number of single samples, etc.). 4. Detailed description of parameters to be determined and the analysis method to be applied including a clear description of any calibration, correction, and/or recalculation needed to make the results compatible with the results analysed according to the established methods. 5. Indication of the timetable for the execution of the projected measures (Form 3b).

▼B

(5) Cost of measures under 4a and 4b (Form 3a)

— cost per point (establishment, observation or sampling),

— total cost of establishment, observation or sampling,

— aid applied for from the Community for establishment, observation or sampling,

— costs per point for analysis and evaluation (soil sampling),

— total costs of analysis and evaluation (soil sampling),

— aid applied for from the Community for analysis and evaluation (soil sampling),

— total project costs (sum of costs for establishment, observations and/or sampling, and sum of costs for analysis and evaluation),

— total aid applied for from the Community (sum of costs for establishment, observations and/or sampling, and sum of costs for analysis and evaluation).

(6) Complete form 3a and 3b

................................................................

Date and signature

►M1 ◄

ANNEX IV

PERIODIC FOREST CONDITION REPORTS

(Article 3 (1))

Each Member State must submit besides the vitality data (as detailed in Annex I) an annual report on the status of their forests before 15 January of the next year. This report should be based in particular on data collected from the 16 km × 16 km forest damage inventory and other observation networks.

The national reports should contain information relating to the following subjects:

I. General information on the carrying-out of the inventory of damage caused to forests

— agency centralizing results,

— national forested area,

— total area covered by network(s),

— grid size of other networks,

— total number of observation plots,

— total number of trees observed,

— number of sample trees per plot,

— disposition/choice of sample trees,

— observation period,

— execution and control of inventory (training period, number of observers; etc.),

— processing of data,

— problems encountered.

II. Forest condition inventory results

Results shall be presented in terms of the percentages of trees falling into the different defoliation and discolouration classes. The percentage of needle/leaf loss refers to damage as a result of unknown and known causes.

In a summary table (Form 4a) the overall information is to be presented on national level and per region. For each region and the total (= national) a set of four forms (Form 4b) shall be completed:

— defoliation — conifers,

— defoliation — broadleaves,

— discolouration — conifers,

— discolouration — broadleaves.

Optionally a report of the combined damage class (a combination of defoliation and discolouration) may be presented in the same form for conifers and broadleaves.

III. Information regarding possible causes of observed damage

A section of the national report should be devoted to the analysis of important information on the possible causes of the observed damage in particular with reference to atmospheric pollution. Results of any correlations made between different types and stages of forest damage (defoliation, discolouration, other signs of damage) and parameters such as site or stand characteristics, climatic data etc. should be included in the annual report.

IV. Measures to maintain or restore damaged forests

Principal results of any measures or field experiments aimed at maintaining and restoring damaged forests should be presented in the report.

V. Socio-economic impact of forest damage

Member States should provide any relevant information available on the socio-economic influence of forest damage.

Explanation Forms 4a and 4b

Information to be supplied in the annual forest condition report

Form 4a: Summary sheet of annual forest condition report

(1) Country

The name of the country.

(2) Year

Year of inventory.

(3) Agency

The name of the responsible executing agency shall be stated here. When (part of) the inventory or data handling/-evaluation is done by different agencies, this shall be stated clearly under remarks.

(4) Contact person

The name of the person responsible for the completion of these forms shall be stated here, including his (direct) telephone and fax numbers.

The following items are to be completed by region and as a total (national).

(5) Total forested area

The total forested area (in km2) shall be stated by region and as a total (total national forest area). When the definition of forest deviates from the definition as stated in Annex I (II.1), a clear statement shall be given on the meaning of the forested area as presented here.

(6) Total forest area covered by the network(s)

This is the area (defined as forest under Annex I (II.1)) that is covered by the network(s). The area may differ from the total national forest area as a result of a different definition or by an incompleteness of the network(s).

(7) Completeness percentage

The completeness of the network(s) shall be stated as a percentage, considering the definition of forest as defined in Annex I (II.1). Differences from 100 % shall be explained.

(8) Grid size(s)

The actual gridsize(s) used for the determination of the location of the observation plots shall be stated in kilometres by kilometres (km × km).

(9) Number of plots

The total visited number of plots shall be stated here.

(10) Number of trees

The total observed number of trees shall be stated here.

(11) Trees per plot

The average number of trees per plot shall be stated here. If there are differences with the nationally determined number of trees per plot these shall be explained in detail.

(12) Region names

Clear indications of the regions (provinces, Länder, states, etc.) shall be given.

(13) Remarks national and regional

Any relevant information on national or regional level shall be included here or on additional pages. Information with a regional character shall be clearly linked to one (or more) regions.

Form 4b: Annual report on forest condition status of main tree species

For each region and the total (= national area) a set of four forms are to be completed (defoliation/conifers, defoliation/broadleaves, discolouration/conifers, and discolouration/broadleaves). On a voluntary basis an additional set of two forms can be completed for the damage (the combination of defoliation and discolouration) for conifers and broadleaves. One of the words defoliation/discolouration as well as conifers/broadleaves shall be stricken.

(1) Country

The name of the country.

(2) Region

The name of the region (see also Form 4a (11)).

(3) Survey period

The period in which the survey (for that region) took place shall be indicated here.

(4) Tree species

In columns 3 to 7 and 10 to 14 the codes of the most important tree species are stated (See Annex I (14) for an extensive list of tree species and their codes). In columns 3 to 7 trees up to 60 years old are reported, while in columns 10 to 14 trees over 60 years of age are reported. In columns 8 and 15 the total situation of the other species are reported for the younger and older trees respectively. The total area of the ‘others’ shall be less than 10 % of the total. If needed additional species shall be presented in additional forms.

In columns 9 and 16 the totals (younger and older than 60 respectively) are reported.

In column 17 trees with an undefined age are reported.

In the final column (grand total) the sum of the totals and undefined age (6 + 16 + 17) is reported.

(5) Total area of species

For each species the total area is stated in km2.

(6) Number of sample trees

On this line the total number of sampled trees is stated.

(7) Percentage in classes

In the five lines below the percentage sign (%) the percentage of trees in the five defoliation (or discolouration) classes is presented for each species, the restgroup, and the total, separated for younger trees and older trees. In the columns with total and grand total the percentage of trees in the five classes of the total group shall be stated. The sum of the percentages in one column always adds up to 100.

(8) Remarks

Any relevant remark considering the figures of one (or more) species shall be stated below the table, and shall be explained in more detail in the accompanying text (See Annex IV (III)).

ANNEX V

FOREST SOIL CONDITION REPORT

(Artile 3a)

Each Member State shall submit besides the soil condition inventory data (as detailed in Annex II) a report on the condition of their forest soils. This report shall be based in particular on data collected from soil sampling of the plots of the 16 km × 16 km network. Furthermore the Member States shall present summarized results of national soil surveys.

The national report shall contain information on the following subjects:

I. General information on the execution of the forest soil condition inventory

— national forested area,

— total area covered by network(s),

— total number of observation plots,

— total number of plots sampled in tree vitality inventory (1993 or 1994),

— total number of plots sampled in forest soil condition inventory,

— number of single samples per composite sample,

— observation period,

— analysis and processing of data (see item V),

— problems encountered.

II. Methodology of sampling, analysis and processing

In Annex II the approved method has been described, specifying the sampling, transport/storage, analysis of soil samples and the processing of the results. Where applicable, additional instructions, details, etc. will be distributed, after approval of the Standing Forestry Committee, to the Member States.

In the forest soil condition report a part should be devoted to describe the actually used method in detail. Especially when the used methods deviate from the approved method and/or when regional differences exist. In case different methods have been applied in the sampling, analysis and processing, clear statements and conclusive lists shall be included, showing which plots have been sampled by the different methods.

II.1. Sampling method in the field

If the sampling is done in full accordance with the approved method (as detailed in Annex II), this shall be stated in the report. Any differences from the approved method shall be described in detail, including clear explanations of any regional differences.

II.2. Transport, storage and preparation

The samples shall be transported and stored in such a way that no chemical changes can occur to the sample. The procedures of this transport, and storage (including waiting periods) shall be reported. Where applicable the problems and deviations of these procedures shall be reported in detail.

II.3. Analysis methods

In Annex II the details of the approved methods are explained.

In the national forest soil condition report a chapter will be devoted to the description of the methods actually used, problems encountered and the methods in which the analysis results have been corrected, calibrated, or converted.

If the analysis of the soil samples has not been executed according to the approved method, the actual method shall be described in detail. Also a conversion method (if possible) shall be presented, by which the data have been (or could have been) converted to be comparable with results obtained through the approved method.

The results of the analysis are to be presented to the Commission in a digital format. When the approved methods have been used, the data can be directly entered. If different methods have been used, the data can be reported directly, or can be converted first.

II.4. Processing of data

In the national forest soil condition report an evaluation of the soil analysis data shall be prepared. The evaluation shall include the evaluation of possible relations between the soil results and the recorded forest damage. An explanation shall be given of the processing methods, the statistical analysis, and the total evaluations that have been used to arrive at the reported values.

III. Soil survey results

Results shall be presented to the Commission in accordance with the instructions as stated in the ‘Submission of soil data in a digital format’ (See Annex VIb).

IV. Information regarding soil damage and soil deterioration

A section of the national report shall be devoted to the analysis of any other important information on the possible causes of the observed soil deterioration in particular with reference to atmospheric pollution. Results of any correlations made between different types and stages of forest damage (defoliation, discolouration, other signs of damage) and the measured soil characteristics should be included in the report.

V. Measures to restore damaged forest soils

Principal results of any measures or field experiments aimed at maintaining and restoring damaged forest soils should be presented in the report. Especially possible consequences as a result of the forest soil condition inventory to the forest management should be elaborated in detail.

ANNEX VI

SUBMISSION OF DATA IN A DIGITAL FORMAT

I. General Information

I.1. Introduction

Since 1987 the data of common forest damage inventory have already been forwarded to the Commission on a yearly basis. The information consists of the plot information (Annex I; Form 1a), and the tree information (Form 1b). Since 1990 the data have been submitted by Member States in a digital form on a voluntary basis.

Before the end of 1995 Member States shall submit information on the forest soil condition to the Commission. These data shall also be submitted in a digital form.

▼M1

Member States participating in the survey on the chemical content of needles and leaves shall submit this information by the 30 June 1996. These data shall be submitted in a digital form.

In this Annex the details on the submission of tree damage inventory data (Annex VIa), the soil condition data (Annex VIb) and the results of the survey on the chemical content of needles and leaves (Annex VIc) are presented.

▼B

I.2. Hardware requirements

As medium for the data submission, the 3,5′′ floppy disk (DSDD) has been selected. This floppy has become a worldwide standard and is cheap and durable. The capacity (720 KB) is enough to contain at least 10 000 trees. Diskettes of good quality are to be used.

I.3. Software requirements

The diskettes are to be formated on ‘low density’, using DOS 2.1 or higher, and should be 100 % IBM compatible. All information on the diskette shall be in ASCII characters.

I.4. Data files

Each diskette shall contain two files; one file with the summarized information of the plots (plot-file), and a second file with the inventoried results (datafiles). Details on the names and the contents of these files is presented in Annex VIa (tree vitality inventory) and Annex VIb (soil condition inventory).

I.5. Example on diskette

On request a diskette with an example of the structure and contents of the files can be supplied.

ANNEX VIa

II. Submission of forest damage inventory data in a digital format

II.1. General

The forest damage inventory data are collected yearly in the summer period. The data should be submitted to the Commission as soon as possible but not later than 15 December of the same year. The data shall be submitted in two files; the plot-file and the tree-data file.

II.2. Information on plot level

The information in the plot-file (see Annex I, Form 1a) should contain for each plot the following information in one row:

— country,

— observation point number (Plot number),

— date of observation,

— actual latitude coordinate,

— actual longitude coordinate,

— availability of water to principal species,

— humus,

— altitude,

— orientation,

— mean age of predominant storey,

— soil unit.

In an extra column remarks with regard to the plot can be added.

The abovementioned inventory data should be presented in a table with a sequence number in the first column.

II.3. Information on tree level

The tree-file (see Annex I, Form 1b) should contain for each tree the following information in one row:

— observation point number,

— sample tree number,

— species,

— defoliation,

— discolouration,

—



game and grazing (T1), presence or traces of an excessive number of insects (T2), fungi (T3), abiotic agents (wind, snow, frost, drought,...) (T4), direct action of man (T5), fire (T6), known local/regional pollutant (T7), other (T8).

— identification of damage type,

— other observations.

These inventory data shall be put into a table with a sequence number and a plot number in the first columns.

II.4. Filenames

To avoid possible confusion between countries and years the files with plot information and with tree information are to be named in such a way that country and year are known in the file name. DOS file names may consist of a name of eight characters and an extension of three characters. As characters letters, numbers and some special signs are accepted. For the names only letters and numbers are used.

The file names should include the country code, consisting of two letters (FR = France, BL = Belgium, etc.) and the year of inventory (e.g. FR1990, FR1991). The file with the plot information will have the extension.PLO. The file with the tree information will have the extension.TRE (e.g. FR1990.PLO and FR1990.TRE).

In case more than about 10 000 trees are inventoried (the capacity of a single diskette) the database should be split in two or more files, using the letters A, B, C, etc. (e.g. FR1990A.TRE, FR1990B.TRE).

II.5. Submission of data

Under separate cover and well packed for international transport the diskette(s) will be sent to the Commission. Together with the diskettes a printed copy of the first page of the files shall be submitted. On this first page the columns and headers shall be clearly indicated.

The diskette shall also be accompanied with a note stating the names of the files, and the total number of plots and trees in the file (last sequence number).

ANNEX VIb

III. Submission of data of the forest soil condition inventory

III.1. General

The forest soil condition inventory data are collected once within the framework of this Regulation (See Annex II (1)). The data should be submitted to the Commission before 31 December 1995. The data shall be submitted in two or three files; the plot-file and the mandatory soil-data file, and, if analysed, the optional soil-data file.

III.2. Information on plot level

The information in the plot-file (See Annex II; Form 2a) is a reduced version of the plot-file for the tree damage and should contain for each plot the following information in one row:

— Country,

— Observation point number (plot number),

— Date of observation (soil sampling),

— Actual laitude coordinate,

— Actual longitude coordinate,

— Altitude,

— Soil unit.

In an extra column remarks with regard to the plot can be added.

The abovementioned inventory data should be presented in a table with a sequence numer in the first column.

III.3. Soil sampling results

The samples shall be analysed and the data shall be reported by layer. The following layers are distinguished:

Organic layers:

— H-horizon

— O-horizon.

Mineral layers:

— M01 (0—10 cm)

— M12 (10—20 cm).

Where it is advised to divide the M01 layer into two sub-layers:

— M05 (0—5 cm)

— M51 (5—10 cm).

The parameters to be submitted for each organic and mineral layer are split into a mandatory set (Man) and an optional (Opt) set of parameters.







Organic H/O Mineral M01, M12 (M05, M51) Approved methods pH (CaCl2) Man Man Labex 8703-01-1-1 and ISO/TC190/SC3/GT8 C—org Man Man Dry combustion N- Man Man Dry combustion P Man Extr: Aqua regia K Man Extr: Aqua regia Ca Man Extr: Aqua regia Mg Man Extr: Aqua regia OrgLay Man Volume (cylindric)-dry-weight CaCO3 Opt Man AFNOR X 31-105







Organic H/O Mineral M01, M12 (M05, M51) Approved methods Na Opt Extr. Aqua regia Al Opt Extr. Aqua regia Fe Opt Extr. Aqua regia Cr Opt Extr. Aqua regia Ni Opt Extr. Aqua regia Mn Opt Extr. Aqua regia Zn Opt Extr. Aqua regia Cu Opt Extr. Aqua regia Pb Opt Extr. Aqua regia Cd Opt Extr. Aqua regia Ac-Exc Opt Labex L8703-26-1-1 BCE Opt Bascomb ACE Opt Bascomb CEC Opt Bascomb BaseSat Opt Labex L8703-26-1-1

The analysis results on the above stated parameters for each layer shall be put into a table with a sequence number and a plotnumber in the first columns. In the first row (sequence number 0), the sample analysis method (SAM) shall be given in the form of a coding.







0 = analysed according to approved method. 1 = analysed according to alternative method. 2 = analysed by different method.

If the samples are not analysed according to the approved method, full details of the analysis method and/or recomputation are to be included in the annex of the Forest soil condition report. A copy of this Annex should be submitted together with the soil condition inventory results.

III.4. Filenames

To avoid possible confusion between countries and years the files with the reduced plot information and with soil-data information are to be named in such a way that country and year are known in the file name. DOS file names may consist of a name of eight characters and an extension of three characters. As characters letters, numbers and some special signs are accepted. Capitals cannot be used. For the names only letters and numbers are used.

The file names should include the country code, consisting of two letters (FR = France, BL = Belgium, etc.) and the year of sampling (e.g. FR1994, FF1995). The file with the reduced plot information for the soil condition inventory will have the extension.PLS. The file with the mandatory soil information will have the extension.SOM and the optional soil information.SOO (e.g. FR1995.PLS, FR1995.SOM und FR1995.SOO).

III.5. Submission of data

Under separate cover and well packed for international transport the diskette(s) will be sent to the Commission. The diskette shall be accompanied with a note stating the names of the files, and the total number of plots and soil samples in the file (last sequence number). Together with the diskettes a printed copy of the first page of the files shall be submitted. On this first page the columns and headers shall be clearly indicated.

Details of the methodology of the sampling, analysis and (re-)computation shall be forwarded to the Commission as an annex to the forest soil condition report (See Annex V), but a copy should also be included with the data diskettes.

( 1 ) OJ No L 326, 21. 11. 1986, p. 2.

( 2 ) OJ No L 217, 31. 7. 1992, p. 1.

( 3 ) OJ No L 161, 10. 6. 1987, p. 1.

( 4 ) The Soil Expert Panel of the UN-ECE/ICP has agreed to use the definitions as given in the FAO-guidelines for soil description (1990), and the definitions of the organic layers (O- and H-) are as follows:

H-horizons or layers : Layers dominated by organic material, formed from accumulations of undecomposed or partially decomposed organic material at the soil surface which may be underwater. All H-horizons are saturated with water for prolonged periods or were once saturated but are now artificially drained. An H-horizon may be on the top of mineral soils or at any depth beneath the surface if it is buried.

O-horizons or layers : Layers dominated by organic material, consisting of undecomposed or partially decomposed litter, such as leaves, needles, twigs, moss and lichens, which has accumulated on the surface; they may be on top of either mineral or organic soils. O-horizons are not saturated with water for prolonged periods. The mineral fraction of such material is only a small percentage of the volume of the material and generally is much less than half of the weight. An O-layer may be at the surface of a soil or at any depth beneath the surface if it is buried. A horizon formed by illuviation of organic material into a mineral subsoil is not an O-horizon, though some horizons formed in this matter contain much organic matter.