Decrease text Increase text

RDP project database

Combating Chestnut Blight to Improve Forest Ecosystems

Summary

This project provides support to the biological control of chestnut blight in five Greek regions. It is anticipated that in total 2,260 ha of chestnut tree areas will be protected from this disease.

Background

Chestnut blight (or chestnut bark disease) is caused by a fungus, which enters wounds and then grows in and under the bark eventually killing the cambium around the twig, branch or trunk. This project was conceived to preserve the forest eco-system and the livelihoods of those who depend on the productivity of the threatened forest areas in five separate Greek regions. Previously implemented biological controls for chestnut blight have had positive eradication results.

Objective

The overall aim of the project is protect 2,260 ha of chestnut tree in different Greek regions. More specifically, the project aims to discover the intensity and extent of the disease in these regions. Then to introduce biological control aiming to combat the disease through the use of a Hypovirus type with double-stranded RNA, which, after attacking the fungus, turns it from a virulent into a hypovirulent.

Main activities

The project is expected to achieve its objectives through: i) the conduct of a study by the Forest Ecosystem Protection & Wildlife Laboratory of the National Agricultural Research Foundation to determine the intensity and extent of the infestation of Chesnut Blight in the five project regions; ii) the anointment of a biological paste on affected trees for a duration of 3 years; carried out by teams of contractors.

Results & Benefits

It is expected that biological control of chestnut blight will contribute to preserving biodiversity and improving the aesthetic value of the forests. The forest ecosystem will be improved and inhabitants of the mountain regions whose living standards are related to forest productivity will benefit. Other users of natural resources such as farmers and urban inhabitants will benefit indirectly. The increase in health trees has also a positive effect in mitigating climate change.

Lessons learnt

The project shows how RDP measures supporting non-productive investments offer a powerful tool to achieve 'win-win' situations where environmental objectives like preserving biodiversity or landscape value are pursued alongside economic benefits, i.e. preserving the value of standing timber. The project also provides a successful example of linking research outcomes with practical applications for nature conservation.

Project location and other information

Kozani, Florina and Kastoria - Region of West Macedonia Serres - Region of Central Macedonia Achaia and Ileia - Region of West Greece Lesvos - Region of North Aegean Chania - Region of Crete

Region

Dytiki Makedonia

RDP Territory

Greece

Total project cost (€)

2 000 000

EAFRD contribution (€)

1 530 800

Contact name

Athanasia Meremeti

Telephone

++30 2105275097

Languages for contact

English, Greek

At a glance

Country

Greece

Final beneficiary type

Other

Budget range

> €500 000

Start date:

01/12/2011

End Date:

31/12/2015

Theme / Measure:

• Environment and Sustainable Resource Management
• Sustainable use of forestry land
• 227. Non-productive investments

Keywords:

Forest ecosystem, Forest management, Biodiversity, Nature conservation

Last update

25/04/2013