FORSAID results highlighted at the Slovenian Conference on Plant Protection
On 4 March 2026, FORSAID partners from the Slovenian Forestry Institute presented key activities and the first preliminary results of two research actions within FORSAID at the 17th Slovenian Conference on Plant Protection with International Participation, held in the city of Radenci.
The conference provided a platform for highlighting the project’s contribution to modern, technology-driven forest health monitoring and engaging with a wide network of experts in plant protection. More specifically, two presentations were given:
- Dr. Maarten de Groot introduced the initial findings from the first monitoring season using automated Trapview devices for the pine processionary moth - one of the project’s key target species. The study demonstrated the strong potential of digital, real-time monitoring tools to improve early detection and response strategies for forest pests.
- Ana Seifert Barba focused on innovative approaches to tracking forest damage using remote sensing technologies. This presentation involved sharing experience from 2025 field observations, highlighting how advanced data collection methods can enhance the monitoring of oak crown damage caused by the invasive oak lace bug.
With more than 300 participants from research, forestry and policy circles, the conference offered valuable visibility for FORSAID. The positive response apparent during the conference confirmed the relevance of the project's interdisciplinary approach, combining field research, digital tools and international collaboration to address emerging challenges in forest health.
Disseminating these early results marks an important step forward and reinforces the role of FORSAID in developing innovative, scalable solutions for sustainable forest management across Europe.