Small retention in mountain forests of south Poland as an element of water resources protection

Abstract

Conducting retention activities is an effective way to increase the country's water resources. Of the European countries, Poland is one of the poorest countries in terms of water. They are almost 2.7 times smaller than the EU average. The total annual amount of precipitation in our country does not change, but we observe its intensity at short intervals. This ensures more intense and faster drainage, which causes damage and a risk of drought. Water retention is one of the first "front lines" in the fight against flooding. Increasing the retention capacity of areas contributes significantly to improving water management. The article presents the functioning of the water retention system in mountain forests. Small retention plays a positive role in improving the conditions of forest areas and is an important element necessary for the preservation and improvement of the natural environment.