LIFE FAGESOS project

The LIFE FAGESOS project aims to address the threat of disease outbreaks from the Phytophthora, associated with climate change, at ten project sites and several replication sites in Italy, Portugal and Spain.

To this end, the project will propose and apply new integrated pest management (IPM) protocols, that can be tailored to specific traits of the target ecosystem. Their application will increase the adaptability and resilience of the target forest ecosystems to climate change and pathogens.

The set of solutions will be implemented by an extensive multi-actor network, composed of public bodies (e.g. natural parks’ administrations and municipalities), forest owners, chestnut and cork cultivators, private biotech enterprises, forest technicians and scientific Institutions in Europe.

The protocols will prevent spread and mitigate the impact of Phytophthora cinnamomi, as well as other AIFPs and reduce their presence in soil.

Specific measures within the proposed IPM protocols are:

  • a remote sensing-based monitoring system able to quantify and identify the existing and new disease foci;

  • the implementation of a risk model to identify the areas at risk of introduction of the disease;

  • The use of hygienic measures to prevent the introduction and spread of Phytophthora cinnamomi and other AIFPs.

  • the implementation of a training network able to reach all categories of stakeholders.

  • the use of new biological products, in alternative to K-phosphonate, whose use will be limited by new regulatory constraints to defined tree species.

  • an innovative airborne distribution of K-phosphonate where its use is still allowed.

The Origin

La sughereta di Valle Marina

Problems to be faced

Project Goals

Main actions

Expected Results and Impacts