Acta Scientiarum Polonorum
Silvarum Colendarum Ratio et Industria Lignaria

Abstract The planned “Bieliszowskie Łęgi” reserve along the Odra River is to cover the area of about 240 ha. The main objective of its establishment is the protection of the riparian forest sites as well as the river valley itself. The total of 63 species of arborescent plants was inventoried which derive from 19 families. Indigenous taxons (51) were found dominant with various plant species of fertile broad-leaved forests represented most abundantly. Since forests in the region are commercially managed, the majority of trees growing in the area are characterized by medium breast height diameters with only a small proportion of large diameters. The most valuable trees include: 3 legally protected species as well as 25 trees with monumental diameters and 27 trees with breast height diameters close to monumental and 62 trees with splendid diameters. 18 trees were selected to be placed under protection as nature monuments. The area of the planned reserve has been changed by human activity (river regulation, forest and meadow management) and placing the area of “Bieliszowskie Łęgi” under protection would allow gradual restoration of the natural character of these riparian forests.