Retsessi

Retsessi is a term originating from Estonian that describes a specific type of forest clearing or glade. It is not a formal scientific term but rather a colloquial one used in the context of Estonian landscape and forestry. A retsessi is typically a natural or semi-natural open area within a forest, often characterized by a different type of vegetation than the surrounding trees, such as meadows, scrub, or sparser tree growth.

These clearings can arise from various natural processes, including historical land use, such as grazing or haymaking, or from natural disturbances like windthrow or fires. Over time, if left unmanaged, a retsessi might gradually be encroached upon by forest. In contemporary Estonia, the concept of retsessi is sometimes used in discussions about biodiversity conservation and habitat management, as these open areas can support unique plant and animal communities distinct from the closed forest environment. The term emphasizes the transition zone between forest and open land.