Germany Pays Millions in Compensation to Forest Owners - Thuringia's forests collapse as only 22% remain healthy by 2025

Thuringia's forests are in decline, with only 22 percent classified as healthy by 2025. Extreme weather, including heat, drought, and storms, has left nearly three-quarters of the state's woodland damaged. The crisis has prompted significant financial support from the regional government over the past three years.

Forests cover around one-third of Thuringia's land, but their condition has worsened sharply since 2022. Drought and bark beetle outbreaks have hit the region hard, mirroring severe damage in states like Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, and North Rhine-Westphalia.

To help forest owners recover, Thuringia has allocated roughly €13 million since 2022. The largest single payout came in 2024, when €3.75 million was distributed. By September 2025, another €3.6 million had already been approved for that year alone.

Small forestry businesses have driven much of the demand for aid. Over 400 applications were submitted in 2022, 2024, and 2025, reflecting the widespread need for assistance across the sector.

The state's support programme continues to provide relief as forest damage spreads. With only a fraction of Thuringia's woodlands now considered healthy, the funding aims to mitigate losses and support long-term recovery. The trend suggests ongoing challenges for forest owners in the years ahead.