Method development
The integration of new methods and technology makes it possible to better meet new social and political demands. The data collected on the Level II sites can provide reference values; existing infrastructure makes it easier to set up additional equipment. This makes the Level II sites focal points for research and the development of methods.
Measurement of mercury deposition
Inputs of mercury via precipitation lead to long-term contamination of forests. To measure this deposition, rainwater must be collected using special collectors. In a project conducted on several Level II plots, the suitability of various collectors for measuring mercury deposition was tested.
Use of drones
Aerial images taken by drones provide a view of the forest from above. This allows for additional observations, such as monitoring phenology at the stand level, mapping tree coordinates, or measuring tree geometry.
Bioacoustics
The forest is a habitat for birds. Their presence can be documented and analyzed through bioacoustic recordings. The feasibility of this method as part of forest environmental monitoring is being tested on eight Level II plots.