Class A timber selection criteria
Class A- this is the highest categoryDREVO Timber Reserve, designed to form a wood heritage that will be used through100–300 yearsThis class includes not just high-quality wood, butunique trunks, representing exceptional natural, scientific, historical and cultural value.
Main selection criteria
| Criterion | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Age | Old-growth trees that have reached natural maturity for their species |
| Diameter | One of the largest for this breed and region |
| Barrel shape | Straight, minimal curvature, no major defects |
| Wood quality | High density, uniform structure, absence of internal defects (according to the examination results) |
| Origin | Natural forests, old cultivated plantations or high-value agroforestry systems |
| Genetic value | Trees with proven unique characteristics or resistance to diseases and climate stress |
| Ecological value | Harvesting is permitted only after the tree's life cycle has been completed or for objective reasons (windfall, emergency condition, necessary restoration work) |
| Documentation | Full digital passport and origin story |
Priority breeds
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Highest priority
Oak (Quercus spp.)— the main type for the formation of heritage due to its high durability and historical value.
Larch (Larix spp.)- exceptional natural durability and strength.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ High priority
Ash (Ash spp.)
Elm (Ulmus spp.)
Edible chestnut (Castanea sativa)
Walnut (Royal walnut)
⭐⭐⭐ Special reserve
Only after scientific evaluation:
maple;
linden;
thousand;
Juniperus arborescens;
fruit trees with unique wood properties.
Additional criteria
A tree receives additional priority if it:
is significantly older than the average for the region;
survived several major droughts;
survived the forest fire;
has proven resistance to diseases;
has historical or cultural significance;
associated with an outstanding natural object or monument.
Mandatory examination
Before inclusion in class A, the following is performed:
laser scanning of the barrel;
ultrasound or acoustic tomography to assess internal defects;
determination of wood density;
moisture analysis;
dendrochronological study;
genetic analysis (if necessary);
photogrammetry;
creation of a digital passport.
Exceptions
In class Ado not turn on:
trees with extensive internal rot;
wood contaminated with industrial substances;
trunks with severe mechanical damage that degrades the quality of the material;
young, fast-growing trees of no particular scientific or genetic value.
Decision on inclusion
Each tree undergoes expert assessment.
| Stage | Check |
|---|---|
| 1 | Type of wood |
| 2 | Origin |
| 3 | Age and size |
| 4 | Wood condition |
| 5 | Genetic value |
| 6 | Scientific and cultural value |
| 7 | Decision of the DREVO Timber Reserve expert commission |
| 8 | Assignment of Class A status and digital identifier |
The main principle
Class A is not the oldest tree or the largest tree, but the tree that represents the greatest value for future generations.
Class Amust remainexclusive reserveIts mission is to preserve a limited number of the finest wood samples, which in 100–300 years can be used in monument restoration, outstanding architectural projects, scientific research, and the creation of works of art, while remaining part of DREVO's long-term natural heritage.