The UGT Rain Exclusion Roof, also known as the Forest Roof, enables controlled reduction of precipitation in natural grassland and forest ecosystems. Because microclimate conditions strongly influence biological, chemical, and hydrological processes, the rain exclusion system provides an excellent tool for studying the effects of drought, climate change, and altered water availability.

Controlled Throughfall Reduction for Ecosystem Research

For drought-manipulation experiments, we also manufacture specialized automated forest roofs. These structures resemble greenhouse roofs and feature automated roll-out panels hidden in the roof ridge. When rainfall begins, the panels extend automatically, preventing throughfall from reaching the soil around the monitored trees.

In the soil, a wide range of environmental sensors—including soil moisture, temperature, water content, root activity, and nutrient dynamics—can be installed. This allows scientists to precisely measure how drought affects ecosystem processes, tree physiology, and soil conditions.

Application Areas

• Forest ecosystem research

• Drought manipulation & rainfall exclusion experiments

• Climate impact studies

• Analysis of tree physiology, soil processes, and root dynamics

• Long-term ecological monitoring

• Klimaforschung der Universität Basel
• Trockenstressforschung der TU München