Braiko V. Current state and characteristics of recreational use of forest parks in Chernigiv

The study investigates healthiness, productivity, age structure, species composition, recreational and aesthetic appeal of forest parks in Chernigiv. The original assessment categories and predictors are proposed for measuring parks' plant health condition. The scale assessing aesthetic appeal of trees is developed. The influence of recreational loads and weather factors (e.g. temperature and precipitation) on the physiological state of trees in the forest park stands for the half-century period are determined. The assortment of native plants and exotic species in the context of the preservation and expansion of species diversity was suggested. The environmentally sound approach for forest health stabilization was recommended, based on the principles of natural ecosystems complexity. It is emphasized that deterioration of plant communities happens not only due to excessive recreational activity, but also due to their structure simplification. The understanding of phytocoenotic relations among woody plants of different age groups is improved. The forest management plan is developed to enhance mature and over-mature poplar and willow plantations with low recreational and aesthetic appeal.