COMPARISON OF SCOTS PINE (PINUS SYLVESTRIS) AND MOUNTAIN PINE (PINUS MUGO) BRUSHWOOD VOLUME AS COASTAL PROTECTION MEASURES IN THE CURONIAN SPIT.

Abstract

The Curonian Spit experiences intensive sand migration, making it particularly important to ensure the stability of protective dune ridges by employing effective coastal management methods. The aim of this study was to compare the branch volume of mountain pine (Pinus mugo) and Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris), evaluating their suitability for strengthening the protective dune ridge. Measurements of branch volume and mass for both pine species were conducted in the Curonian Spit National Park using weighing and xylometric methods. Results revealed that mountain pine branches have a higher volumetric mass compared to Scots pine, leading to greater density and mechanical resilience. This gives mountain pine branches higher efficiency for dune stabilization, particularly on the western slopes heavily exposed to strong winds, whereas Scots pine branches are more suitable for protecting the upper dune ridge from wind erosion. Both species demonstrated a strong correlation between branch diameter, volume, and mass, indicating these parameters can effectively predict biomass amounts necessary for coastal management. Further research should focus on accurately determining stack volumes and calculating the precise quantity of branches required per unit area, optimizing coastal management practices and ensuring their long-term effectiveness.