Water and forests. Part 2 - the influence of trees on the quality of water

Pesticides, nitrates, phosphates, acidification, solid transport are all potential causes of water quality deterioration. However, it is recognised that forest water is generally of good quality. This advantage is brought about on the one hand by the fact that few inputs are used, although the latter may persist in the soil, and on the other the combination of a high storage capacity and efficient processing ability of trees and forest soil. These assets are connected with various morphological and biological factors. The location and features of forests - including riparian forests, hedges and flood plain forests - bring about variations in their capacity to ensure good water quality. Forest practices such as clearing, logging and stand management influence the quality of water that travels through forests. The positive role that forested environments play in respect of the resource's potability is worth capitalising on and promoting. (authors)