Tree Liability - Tree Protection and its Ecological Effects.

Almost a quarter of Austria's forest area is theoretically subject to tree liability. In practice, this often leads to ecologically valuable individual and forest trees being pruned or felled as a precaution. This is intended to prevent accidents and related claims for damages. Solutions to minimise costs for municipalities and forest owners and preserve valuable trees include liability changes, risk management in tree assessment and increased ownership by forest visitors. The study provides an overview of the legal foundations and practice of tree protection in Austria. The focus is on the ecological effects of safety cuts and precautionary precipitation. In addition, consequences of these measures for the functions of trees and forests are examined.