Wow, so sorry to read this. We have got to do a better job with our wild areas. I know we here in the US are seeing some massive forest changes too. I personally think global warming is catching up with us. We are seeing so many environmental changes this past decade. Heck, I can't even remember a winter that was that cold in the past few years.
Yes, it was quite depressing to drive through the dead forest. But there's hope for a good recovery with some deciduous trees added to it. I didn't stop on my way because I didn't want the ride to take longer than it already was plus there were cars right behind me.
I can only hope that the government does something to maintain our forests. Private companies or people are not allowed to plant new trees here in Germany.