Tönderberget, Naturreservat

On the northeastern slope of Tönderberget, we find this beautiful old-growth forest. Pine trees dominate here on mostly poor soil. The forest is home to old trees, rare species, and traces of forest fires from days gone by.

Ancient Trees and Rare Species

The forest in this area has been spared from modern forestry practices, and some trees are remarkably old. The oldest tree that has been dated was 283 years old. It sprouted around the same time that Carl von Linné was on his botanical excursions in Dalarna! The old trees and the abundance of dead trees—both standing and fallen—provide deadwood and vital habitats for many species of lichens, insects, mosses, and fungi that are worthy of protection. For example, the rare species spotted polypore and cream polypore have been found in the reserve.

Traces of past forest fires—and plans for new ones

On many of the stumps in the area and on some living trees, you can see damage from forest fires of the past. In the past, forest fires were common. An average forest burned about once every 30 years. This natural disturbance in the landscape is essential for the survival of many species, which have been disadvantaged in modern times because most forest fires are extinguished quickly. The County Administrative Board plans to reintroduce natural fire dynamics across large parts of the reserve through controlled conservation burns.