FOREST4EU Factsheets booklet collection - Innovation Topic Hub 3: Sustainable forest management and ecosystem services

FACTSHEETS BOOKLET COLLECTION ITHub3 Sustainable forest management and ecosystem services The FOREST4EU Factsheet Collection brings together the key findings, best practices, and innovative tools developed within the project. Each factsheet offers a clear, concise, and accessible summary of a specific topic, ranging from novel wood-based products and climate resilience strategies to advanced monitoring technologies. Training for Forest Operators in Intervention Techniques to Enhance Carbon Credit Generation Introduction A project aimed at generating ecosystem credits requires approval from a verification body. Among all the criteria necessary for project approval, additionality is perhaps the key factor: it must be demonstrated that without the implementation of the project and specific management measures, no environmental benefit would be achieved. Therefore, in the context of ecosystem credit generation, it is necessary to develop additionality projects through silvicultural interventions that increase carbon storage and improve biodiversity within the canopy. These silvicultural interventions, as opposed to conventional forestry practices, require specific training for the operators working in the forest. Within the framework of OG CO2S.Fo.Ma, which has the goal of enhancing carbon credits, it was considered important to provide specific training for forestry operators in silvicultural choices and forest interventions aimed at generating additionality. The training included activities such as selective harvesting, thinning, conversion to high forest, and the selection of trees to promote biodiversity aspects. The training was conducted directly in the forest through a practical course. The training allowed for practical activities to explain how to carry out additionality projects and to educate operators who typically work in the forest only on conventional silvicultural interventions. This has enabled the operators to become self-sufficient in implementing specific additionality interventions in the designated OG CO2S.Fo.Ma project area, as well as to make them self-sufficient for future additionality projects in other areas. Lessons learned The course was useful for pursuing qualitative growth in the work of forestry workers with a view to sustainable forest management and the improvement of ecosystem services and the carbon stock. The practical course was considered useful by the operators because it was conducted directly in the forest. Furthermore, it allowed for the expansion of the operators' skills. For further information contact Marco Perrino, Project Coordinator, Italy, email: marco [email protected] Francesca Giannetti, Assistant Professor, University of Florence, Italy, e-mail: francesca.gi[email protected]t ITHub 3 - Sustainable Forest Management and Ecosystem Services FOREST4EU partner: UNIFI OG: CO2S.Fo.Ma OG’s country: Italy Type of Innovation: Process The information presented in this factsheet was developed by the FOREST4EU partner, drawing on the innovations and knowledge generated by the indicated operational group with their explicit authorization. Further information Funded by the European Union (Grant n. 101086216). Views and opinions expressed are however those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or REA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. FOREST4EU Project FOREST4EU Project [email protected] https://www.co2marche.it/ Website Group Certification for Sustainable Forest Management: Promoting Shared Forest Management and Ecosystem Services Enhancement Introduction In Italy one of the main obstacles to forestry management is fragmentation and small forest area of private properties. For overcoming this problem, the project CO2 Marche promoted a Group Certification between different forest owners. The Group Certification is specifically designed for small and collective forest properties, is the result of great teamwork related to the ability to unite public and private forces, overcoming territorial fragmentation for a common goal in order to simplify and share the organisational aspects of Sustainable Forest Management Certification and to reduce its costs. It is an alternative approach to individual certification, allowing certification of several forest owners as a group. It requires a Lead Partner representing the group, with responsibility for ensuring that the forest management practices of individual owners within the certified area comply with PEFC requirements. In the context of the project, the 'Bosco di Marca' was created, a forest consortium of 9208,25 ha that achieved the goal to obtain the PEFC Sustainable Forest Management Group Certification. Forest Group Certification is a good opportunity for forest owners to manage forests and the ecosystem services produced, by increasing carbon storage, prevent forest fires, hydrogeological instability, soil erosion, protect forests and biodiversity, contribute to good water and air quality, mitigate temperatures and climate change, enhance the landscape and offer better tourism and recreational services. Moreover, in the context of the project, a particular attention was put in promoting the exchange of sustainability credits and create employment and wealth in the mountain areas of the Marche Region, with a special focus on the 2019 earthquake crater area. The certification highlights the effort put to enhance ecosystem services: it demonstrates concretely how forests and woodlands can be not only an environmental but also an economic resource, and how everything is interconnected. Forest owners and managers will then be able to calculate the forest's carbon storage capacity and offer credits to be sold to organisations or companies wishing to neutralise their emissions. In this way, forest communities will be able to survive and not abandon the inland areas of the country. ITHub 3 - Sustainable Forest Management and Ecosystem Services FOREST4EU partner: UNIFI OG: CO2S.Fo.Ma OG’s country: Italy Type of Innovation: Process Lessons learned This group certification model allowed the achievement of the largest group certification in central Italy with 9,208.25 ha. This certification is proof of the possibility of overcoming territorial fragmentation for a common objective by uniting public and private forces. In these areas, obtaining and maintaining GFS certification will guarantee not only the application of a continuous monitoring system but also the implementation of a continuous improvement programme. For further information contact Marco Perrino, Project Coordinator, Italy, email: marco [email protected] Francesca Giannetti, Assistant Professor, University of Florence, Italy, e-mail: francesca.gi[email protected]t The information presented in this factsheet was developed by the FOREST4EU partner, drawing on the innovations and knowledge generated by the indicated operational group with their explicit authorization. Further information Funded by the European Union (Grant n. 101086216). Views and opinions expressed are however those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or REA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. FOREST4EU Project FOREST4EU Project [email protected] https://www.co2marche.it/ Website Enhancing Additionality Assessment of Carbon Credit of Various Interventions by Utilizing Site-Specific Historical Data in Compliance with IPCC International Standards Introduction In carbon credit additionality projects, it is essential to use precise quantification methods to avoid incorrect estimations. In this context, within the framework of the OG CO2S.Fo.Ma, an international methodology based on the IPCC standards has been chosen as reference fo the quantification of carbon credits. However, to arrive at a more accurate estimation of carbon credits, the international ICPP methodology has been link with a site-specific methodology developed within the OG CO2S.Fo.Ma. The site-specific methodology takes into account site-specific data for each of the additionality measures proposed concerning the Business As Usual (BAU) scenario (e.g., converting coppice/stand, extending the harvesting rotation, and wildfire prevention). Indeed, the OG CO2S.Fo.Ma covered 9,000 hectares of forests managed in the past for which historical dendrometric data were already available. These historical data pertained to forest parcels managed in the past with practices similar to those proposed in the additionality measures. This enabled the adjustment of the IPCC models to the actual biomass and CO2 increases recorded in the project areas. This approach allowed for more accurate carbon estimates and the calculation of additionality based on real growth data. From a credit quantification perspective, this approach is, therefore, more rigorous compared to the usual methods applied in other certification standards. In this context, the OG CO2S.Fo.Ma has also contribute to develop the national certification standard of PEFC for carbon credits that can be request just if the forest are manage under the sustainable forest management PEFC national standard. Moreover, at the moment in Italy there is a National Carbon Credit Register. ITHub 3 - Sustainable Forest Management and Ecosystem Services FOREST4EU partner: UNIFI OG: CO2S.Fo.Ma OG’s country: Italy Type of Innovation: Process Lessons learned In the context of carbon credits, it is necessary to have quantification methodologies for the carbon credits generated by additionality measures that are as rigorous and transparent as possible to avoid speculation. In this context, the OG CO2S.Fo.Ma worked to develop a methodology that aligns with the IPCC standards but is also informed by site-specific data. This was made possible because the forests had been managed in the past, and historical dendrometric data allowed for the quantification of the increases resulting from silvicultural interventions. The project highlighted that it is indeed active forest management that generates additionality and, consequently, carbon credits. Furthermore, these evidence-based methodologies using real data ensure that the generated credits can be certified, particularly under the new PEFC standard in Italy, which is based on stringent methodologies compared to other standards. For further information contact Marco Perrino, Project Coordinator, Italy, email: marco [email protected] Francesca Giannetti, Assistant Professor, University of Florence, Italy, e-mail: francesca.gi[email protected]t The information presented in this factsheet was developed by the FOREST4EU partner, drawing on the innovations and knowledge generated by the indicated operational group with their explicit authorization. Further information Funded by the European Union (Grant n. 101086216). Views and opinions expressed are however those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or REA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. FOREST4EU Project FOREST4EU Project [email protected] https://www.co2marche.it/ Website Efficient Sampling Methodology for Calculating Soil Carbon Credits Introduction Soil Carbon Credits are additional carbon credits that enhance ecosystem services, such as C stocking and improving rural economy, and SFM applicability. Soil Carbon Credits are additional carbon credits that enhance ecosystem services, such as C stocking and improving rural economy, and SFM applicability. Data from 5 different C pools of forests were estimated for the quantification of total organic C in 3 forest sites: Above and below ground biomass (AGB; BGB), litter, dead wood and soil. AGB C was estimated in sample plots on an INFC model, BGB C was calculated using specific root-to-shoot ratios (RSR), dead wood by field analysis (measurements of the diameter of dead wood >2.5 cm and the classification based on decomposition classes on a transect) followed by the application of a function to calculate the C stored; litter C stock through the ratio of organic C mass to surface area and SOC by collection of composite samples taken at 3 different depths (0-5 cm, 5-15 cm, 15-30 cm)and rock% and Bulk Density (BD) calculation, followed by SOC estimation through elemental analyzer. Thanks to this analysis it was possible to calculate the total C content of the forest ecosystems and compare the C storage capacity of conventionally managed forest plots (unmanaged or coppiced) and plots under SFM (transitional forest). Lessons learned SFM supports C storage in the various forest compartments, (soil, biomass and necromass) increases the provision of ecosystem services, forest productivity, and contributes to climate change mitigation while providing support to the local rural economy ITHub 3 - Sustainable Forest Management and Ecosystem Services FOREST4EU partner: UNIFI OG: CO2S.Fo.Ma OG’s country: Italy Type of Innovation: Process For further information contact Marco Perrino, Project Coordinator, Italy, email: marco [email protected] Francesca Giannetti, Assistant Professor, University of Florence, Italy, e-mail: francesca.gi[email protected]t The information presented in this factsheet was developed by the FOREST4EU partner, drawing on the innovations and knowledge generated by the indicated operational group with their explicit authorization. Further information Funded by the European Union (Grant n. 101086216). Views and opinions expressed are however those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or REA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. FOREST4EU Project FOREST4EU Project [email protected] https://www.co2marche.it/ Website Lessons learned UAVs provide reliable predictors of biomass. The test areas exhibit diverse forest types and topography, and the Root Mean Square error obtained through the model approach is consistent across all areas. This indicates that the instrument's applicability can be beneficial in various contexts. In the tested areas, the biomass map is highly accurate, as it is calibrated to the specific area. The map offers spatial information that cannot be generated using traditional data sources. It enhances the optimization of forest interventions and provides greater precision. Forest managers in the tested areas have emphasized that the biomass map serves as a valuable starting point for considering carbon credits and designing the business-as-usual scenario. For further information contact Francesca Giannetti, Assistant Professor, University of Florence, Italy, e-mail: [email protected] The information presented in this factsheet was developed by the FOREST4EU partner, drawing on the innovations and knowledge generated by the indicated operational group with their explicit authorization. Further information Funded by the European Union (Grant n. 101086216). Views and opinions expressed are however those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or REA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. FOREST4EU Project FOREST4EU Project [email protected] https://www.go-surf.it/ Website Keys for Forest Types Classification Schemes to support the reporting of Support Sustainable Forest Management Indicators in Various Contexts Introduction Tree species composition is a crucial indicator for sustainable forest management. It allows for the assessment of forest practices and ecosystem health. It provides valuable information on biodiversity, carbon sequestration, forest health, and social and economic benefits. Tree species composition refers to the types and distribution of tree species within a forest area. It plays a vital role in determining forest structure, function, and ecosystem services. The composition of tree species directly impacts forest biodiversity, as different species provide habitats for various organisms. It also influences the productivity and resilience of the forest, as certain species may be better adapted to specific environmental conditions or exhibit different growth rates. Understanding tree species composition is essential for promoting sustainable forest management. It helps identify potential threats, such as invasive species or imbalances in species diversity. It also informs decisions related to forest restoration, conservation, and the promotion of specific tree species for particular objectives, such as timber production, carbon sequestration, or habitat conservation. However, when it comes to Sustainable Forest Management Indicators, different organizations may require different classification schemes for forest tree species. This can pose a challenge for forest managers when reporting data. Therefore, it is important to provide them with user-friendly tools, such as keys or tables, that facilitate the transition between different classification systems and make the process easier for them. GOSURF, in response to this challenge identified by forest managers involved in forest management plans, has attempted to solve this issue in the Tuscany Region where four different forest types classification schemes are established. These include the European Forest Types classification scheme, the Tuscany Forest Types Classification Scheme, the National Forest Inventory Classification Scheme, and the Corine Land Cover Italy 4-level classification Scheme. In this context, GO-SURF has developed user-friendly tables in collaboration with experts to guide forest managers in classifying forest types according to the different nomenclature systems. This allows forest managers to use the forest types classification system with which they are most familiar, and then use the table to transitioning the types from one system to another. This facilitates the reporting of various Sustainable Forest Indicators in different contexts, such as at the European, national, and regional levels, as required by different authorities. ITHub 3 - Sustainable Forest Management and Ecosystem Services FOREST4EU partner: UNIFI OG: SURF OG’s country: Italy Type of Innovation: Technological Lessons learned In the context of the Tuscany region, the inconsistency of forest classification systems has been identified as a problem by forest managers, leading technicians to duplicate their work in classifying forests. This also sometimes results in the use of different systems that are not comparable. The initiative to develop keys for transitioning between different classification systems has been well received by managers involved in the OG, and these keys are now being utilized by others OG of the project, as they are made available on the GO-SURF website. This issue has also been observed in other Italian contexts, including forest inventories, where different countries employ different classification systems. For biodiversity monitoring, GO-SURF has emphasized the need for standardization efforts, even through simple solutions such as transition tables. For further information contact Francesca Giannetti, Assistant Professor, University of Florence, Italy, e-mail: [email protected] The information presented in this factsheet was developed by the FOREST4EU partner, drawing on the innovations and knowledge generated by the indicated operational group with their explicit authorization. Further information Funded by the European Union (Grant n. 101086216). Views and opinions expressed are however those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or REA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. FOREST4EU Project FOREST4EU Project [email protected] https://www.go-surf.it/ Website The ARCHI method: a tool for diagnosing the vitality of trees Introduction Vitality of trees is conditioned by genetics, as well as by two fluctuating factors: aging on the one hand and environmental constraints on the other. Diagnosing vitality is therefore a question of defining both the stage of development and the physiological state. We are able to calculate the age of a tree by counting the rings on a core of wood taken from the base of the trunk. The trouble is that this chronological age is not correlated with development. How long does the youth stage, adult stage and maturity last? Moreover, the classic measurements of diameter and height are of no help, the oldest subjects not being systematically the largest or the tallest. However, the architecture of a tree, that is to say the way in which it is built and repaired, constitutes a real biological signature of its vitality, this is the principle of the ARCHI method. ARCHI methodology and typology Vitality of trees is conditioned by genetics, as well as by two fluctuating factors: aging on the one hand and environmental constraints on the other. Diagnosing vitality is therefore a question of defining both the stage of development and the physiological state. We are able to calculate the age of a tree by counting the rings on a core of wood taken from the base of the trunk. The trouble is that this chronological age is not correlated with development. How long does the youth stage, adult stage and maturity last? Moreover, the classic measurements of diameter and height are of no help, the oldest subjects not being systematically the largest or the tallest. However, the architecture of a tree, that is to say the way in which it is built and repaired, constitutes a real biological signature of its vitality, this is the principle of the ARCHI method. The vitality of a tree must constantly be evaluated. After planting, to judge the quality of the resumption of growth; during development, to adapt the type of pruning, its frequency and its intensity; following an environmental constraint, to anticipate the reversible or irreversible nature of a decline; at the time of a mechanical diagnosis, to estimate the physical resilience capacity of a subject deemed to be fragile; also at the end of life, to recognize the natural or premature nature of mortality. Six physiological states are assigned to the young, adult and mature stages of development. The senescence inevitably leads to a natural death. ITHub 3 - Sustainable Forest Management and Ecosystem Services FOREST4EU partner: CNPF OG: SPNA OG’s country: France Type of Innovation: Technological • Healthy: a tree without any significant symptom of crown degradation and whose architecture is in accordance with its development stage. • Stressed: a tree that undergoes stress, which can be seen by changes in its architecture (impoverishment of ramification, mortality, possibly the appearance of epicormic shoots, etc.), without it being possible for the observer to instantly decide on its future restoration or further degradation, based on the assessment. • Resilient: a tree whose crown development resumes normal architectural dynamics, after a deviation from the normal. This is mainly thanks to the development of orthotropic epicormic shoots in the upper canopy. • Crown retrenchment: a tree in the dynamic formation process of a new, secondary crown below the original canopy, which eventually dies. • Fallback: a tree that does not have a living upper canopy but continues to function with unaltered lower branches from its original structure. The tree does not form a secondary crown, so it is not in a crown retrenchment process. • Irreversible decline: a tree with a degraded crown (impoverished ramification, abnormal mortality) without any viable restoration process (epicormic shoots are almost absent or, on the contrary, abundant but (almost) all of the ageotropic type). Lessons learned The ARCHI method is aimed at foresters, ecologists, arborists, teachers and researchers. There is a good correlation between the six physiological states and the width of the wood rings or the NDVI index (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) measuring the photosynthetic activity of the foliage. For several tree species, a dichotomous ARCHI key has been developed in order to support, facilitate and objectify the architectural analysis of individual trees. These keys are tree species specific. Currently (2023) ARCHI keys are available for the 18 following species: Quercus (robur, petraea, pubescens, ilex, suber), Fagus sylvatica, Platanus x acerifolia, Castanea sativa, Cedrus atalantica, Pinus pinaster, Pinus sylvestris, Pinus nigra (ssp. nigra, ssp laricio var. corsicana, ssp. salzmannii), Abies alba, Pseudotsuga menziesii, Picea abies. The ARCHI keys can be downloaded from: https://www.cnpf.fr/archi/. An app based on the principle of ARCHI keys, which can be used on tablets and phones, is under development. Figure 1. Presentation of the ARCHI key for adult oaks (Quercus robur, Q. petraea, Q. pubescens). ©CNPF The information presented in this factsheet was developed by the FOREST4EU partner, drawing on the innovations and knowledge generated by the indicated operational group with their explicit authorization. Further information Funded by the European Union (Grant n. 101086216). Views and opinions expressed are however those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or REA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. FOREST4EU Project FOREST4EU Project [email protected] https://www.cnpf.fr/nos-actions-nos-outils/outils-et-techniques/archi Website Vigil'encre: participatory science tool for epidemiological surveillance of chestnut ink Introduction Chestnut ink disease is transmitted by roots. Pathogens are soil microorganisms originating from Asia introduced to Europe at the end of the 19th century. INRAE scientists have developed a Vigil’encre application to provide information on chestnut tree diseases, identify symptoms and report the location of affected stands. Vigil’encre is available on download platforms. Vigil’encre users thus participate in research carried out by INRAE on chestnut ink. Presentation of the Vigil’encre application The Vigil’encre application is intended for owners of forest plots or chestnut orchards, but also for all forest users and the general public. It is organized around three functions, which are: - Inform about chestnut tree diseases; - Identify symptoms and diseases; - Report chestnut trees showing symptoms. On the Vigil'encre homepage (Fig. 1A) there are several windows and documentation on the chestnut tree (biology, distribution, use, recognition), ink disease, other diseases (chestnut canker, Phytophthora ramorum, Cynips). An owner, technician or forest manager wishing to have help in establishing a diagnosis on their dying chestnut trees can use the “identify” function (Fig. 1B). The symptoms observed can thus be compared to those illustrated in Vigil’encre. For ink, symptoms can be observed at the roots or crown, at the trunk or leaves. Possible confusion with other diseases or symptoms is indicated on the home page (Fig. 1A). By opening the “Report” page (Fig. 1C), it is possible to report symptoms attributable to ink, Canker and Cynips. ITHub 3 - Sustainable Forest Management and Ecosystem Services FOREST4EU partner: CNPF OG: SPNA OG’s country: France Type of Innovation: Social Figure 1. Presentation of the different modules of Vigil’encre designed to meet the tool's three functions (inform, identify, declare). ©INRAE For each problem, precise information is requested on the site where the report is made and the type of chestnut tree stand. It is possible to geolocate the report and submit photos of the symptoms observed. This information will make it possible to confirm the diagnosis carried out and to populate a database. To confirm the diagnosis, INRAE offers Vigil’encre users the possibility of sending soil and/or plant samples in order to carry out a diagnosis in the laboratory. The procedures to follow are detailed on the homepage. The map of the reports made is also provided (Fig. 2). Figure 2. Mapping of alerts issued on Vigil’encre. ©INRAE The information presented in this factsheet was developed by the FOREST4EU partner, drawing on the innovations and knowledge generated by the indicated operational group with their explicit authorization. Further information Funded by the European Union (Grant n. 101086216). Views and opinions expressed are however those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or REA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. FOREST4EU Project FOREST4EU Project [email protected] https://ephytia.inra.fr/fr/P/157/Vigilencre Website Figure 1. Example of the marteloscope tool, a training programme designed to analyse hammering. Sylvain Gaudin © CNPF Marteloscope Introduction A marteloscope is a practical tool for training in silvicultural management. In groups, participants walk through a forest plot and simulate thinning by choosing the trees that they think should be cut (hammering). Software then makes it possible to simulate the impact that this cutting would have on the forest: economic profitability, improvement in the quality of the wood in the long term, preservation of biodiversity, etc. Methodology and results The size of a Marteloscope should be fixed to 1 hectare with side lengths of 100 x 100 m. Size and form should be tailored to the planned use of the Marteloscope and the geography and local conditions. So, they may in exceptional cases differ from the regular rectangular shape. A 1 ha plot (chestnut, oak and beech stand) for the marteloscope has been located in Corrèze at Meilhards. This site is now operational to welcome groups and to carry out hammering exercises (first day in April 2023). In addition, 10 reference sites have been located in Dordogne. The interest of these reference sites is that they present a great diversity of types of chestnut stands (pure and mixed) of all ages as well as different types of management applied (renewal with stump crushing for example). The interest of marteloscopes and reference sites is that they represent a practical tool for training in silvicultural management. ITHub 3 - Sustainable Forest Management and Ecosystem Services FOREST4EU partner: CNPF OG: SPNA OG’s country: France Type of Innovation: technological For further information contact Francesca Giannetti, Assistant Professor, University of Florence, Italy, e-mail: [email protected] The information presented in this factsheet was developed by the FOREST4EU partner, drawing on the innovations and knowledge generated by the indicated operational group with their explicit authorization. Further information Funded by the European Union (Grant n. 101086216). Views and opinions expressed are however those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or REA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. FOREST4EU Project FOREST4EU Project [email protected] https://www.go-surf.it/ Website Support multi-object forest management plans through easy-access information Introduction To support sustainable forest management aimed at maximizing ecosystem services through new silvicultural practices, it is essential to have access to a range of information that enables forest managers to quickly retrieve data, with the ultimate goal of achieving certification for ecosystem services. In this context, PRI.FOR.MAN, which has developed a decision support system in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region, provides various user-friendly graphical interface access to diverse information. In this context PRI.FOR.MAN DSS provide user-friendly information regarding (i) the Forest Types Categories that define the classification of forested areas based on specific criteria such as land use, productivity, conservation; (ii) Availability of Existing Forest Management Plans, that outline strategies and objectives for the sustainable management of forest resources in a specific area, that guide management actions over time; (iii) Forest Roads: The network of forest roads is vital for accessibility and forest area management not just for wood mobilization but also for touristic activities; (iv) Annual Growth of wood: This value indicates the average annual growth of forest resources and influences the capacity of resource renewal; (v) Presence of Disturbances: This may include events like fires, diseases, or insect infestations that affect tree health and require specific management actions; (vi) Environmental Constraints: These encompass considerations related to environmental conservation and protection, (vii) Protective Role of Forest Vegetation: This concerns the significance of forest vegetation in providing ecosystem services such as soil protection and water cycle regulation; (viii) Location of Biotopes, Parks, and Regional or State Reserves: These are ecologically significant sites or protected areas requiring special management for biodiversity conservation; (ix) Natura 2000 Sites: These are designated sites within the European Union's Natura 2000 network, necessitating specific conservation and development measures based on prevailing regulations. All these elements are fundamental for sustainable forest management, which aims to balance the utilization of forest resources with the conservation of the natural environment. They provide essential information for forest managers to develop multi-objective forest management plans and actions that are not only linked with wood mobilization but also with biodiversity conservation, tourist activities, and the monitoring of forest health. Before the PRI.FOR.MAN, this information was already available online but scattered across various local authority websites. The PRI.FOR.MAN project has allowed for the consolidation of these data into a single container, the Decision Support System (DSS), designed specifically for the forest context. ITHub 3 - Sustainable Forest Management and Ecosystem Services FOREST4EU partner: UNIFI OG: PRI.FOR.MAN OG’s country: Italy Type of Innovation: Service Lessons learned Harmonizing information and making it available in user-friendly systems is crucial to ensure data accessibility. Otherwise, users trying to navigate across different portals may struggle to access the information, leading to its underutilization. Without the use of information, it becomes challenging to plan multi-objective management strategies, and there's a risk of abandonment of forested areas. For further information contact Francesca Giannetti, Assistant Professor, University of Florence, Italy, e-mail: [email protected] Giorgio Alberti, Professor, University of Udine, Italy, e-mail: [email protected] Luca Cadez, University of Udine, Italy, e-mail: [email protected] The information presented in this factsheet was developed by the FOREST4EU partner, drawing on the innovations and knowledge generated by the indicated operational group with their explicit authorization. Further information Funded by the European Union (Grant n. 101086216). Views and opinions expressed are however those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or REA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. FOREST4EU Project FOREST4EU Project [email protected] https://lookerstudio.google.com/u/0/reporting/2f6c2f81-b78f-446c-ab07-96571d7b6984/page/p_w5k3gvls6c Website Community forest arrangements as ideal instance for the realization of the profitsharing model of PRIFORMAN Project Introduction Community forest arrangements are tools for the development of business networks in forestry sector, to valorise public and private agro-silvo-pastoral lands, encourage provision of ecosystem services and conservation. They’re among the instruments recommended by the TUFF and other provisions of the Italian legal system for the associated management of forests. They offer the possibility of participation not only to companies, but also to small forest owners, regardless of the size of the area of land. This enables small forest owners to ''join forces'' to manage their forests and possibly outsource their management, thus overcoming the problem of 'inactive' owners (lack of physical presence of owners in the area), the problem of ‘fragmentation’ of forests properties and the possible lack of forestry management knowledge. The creation community forest arrangements, with the application of the profit-sharing model created by PRI.FOR.MAN, gives the possibility of an allocation of profits not limited to timber extraction, but provided by multifunctional management based on the desiderata of the contractors and the reference regulations. This binome ‘community forest agreement - profit-sharing model represents a sustainable model both from the economic point of view (as it allows not only a reduction in costs, but also an increase in profits), the environmental point of view (as it ensures proper management of forests), and the social point of view (as it represents a form of participatory forest management, which could also help to maintain the population of mountain areas). From the social and technical meetings held during the project emerged some critical issues that need to be addressed in the project follow-up. The first difficulty encountered was to contact all the forest owners. Afterwords was noticed a general owners’ mistrust in delegating the management of their funds to third parties for prolonged periods of time, even in the face of clear and reliable legal and technical instruments. Moreover, they showed a common preference to sell the standing forest in order to have a high periodic income rather than opting for an annualisation of profits from shared management, and the preference of purchasing contracts with utilisation companies for individual utilisations, rather than the possibility of taking multi-year management with the associated risks. During the PRI.FOR.MAN project was produced the contract proposal with the application of the profit-sharing model, but it still need to be signed up by forest owners. The now ongoing NET4GO Project, in Veneto, will focus on putting into practice this innovation. ITHub 3 - Sustainable Forest Management and Ecosystem Services FOREST4EU partner: UNIFI OG: PRI.FOR.MAN OG’s country: Italy Type of Innovation: Organisational Lessons learned Community forest arrangements are multifunctional tools that provides economical, environmental and social, allowing to overcome many difficulties linked to forest management. They're the most suitable instrument for the implementation of the profit-sharing model devised within the Project and fot the success of community forest management. However, to be applied and overcome the general owners' mistrust it’s higly necessary to explain the given possibilities, by giving examples of realities that achieved positive outcomes (D’Adderzio, 2023). For further information contact Francesca Giannetti, Assistant Professor, University of Florence, Italy, e-mail: [email protected] Giorgio Alberti, Professor, University of Udine, Italy, e-mail: giorgio.alber[email protected] Luca Cadez, University of Udine, Italy, e-mail: [email protected] The information presented in this factsheet was developed by the FOREST4EU partner, drawing on the innovations and knowledge generated by the indicated operational group with their explicit authorization. Further information Funded by the European Union (Grant n. 101086216). Views and opinions expressed are however those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or REA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. FOREST4EU Project FOREST4EU Project [email protected] https://lookerstudio.google.com/u/0/reporting/2f6c2f81-b78f-446c-ab07-96571d7b6984/page/p_w5k3gvls6c Website Sharing-profits methodology for community forest arrangement Introduction The economical objective of PRI.FOR.MAN Project was to develop a new sharing-profit methodology to recognise the adequate profit from timber harvesting to each private forest owner in the context of community forest management. The concept of "condominium" associated with forest areas has already been used in some initiatives of shared forest management, but in this case the innovation regards the method of profit-sharing. In fact, the easy profit-sharing method by adopting a millesimal system, thus based on surface area alone (similar to that used in condominium management), would have penalised small owners, who represent a very significant portion in the italian context. In order to reach forest owners it’s necessary to guarantee them a congruous timber annual payment that could induce them to assign the management of their area to an external logging company (private or public). On the other hand it’s necessary to guarantee the external manager adequate financial reward for timber logging and harvesting. The wood stock is determined by using drone and photogrammetry, then its effective value is expressed in function of the main relevant variables: accessibility, assortments and timber market value. With regard to the annual quota due to each owner, it is made up of two components: a fixed one and a variable one. The fixed one is directly proportional to the surface of the shared forest (and will tend to be low), while the variable component is directly proportional to the ratio between the volume of each individual parcel (Vui) and the total volume of the forest area. Some issues about the application of the sharing-profits methodology emerged in the case study in Tarvisio and need to be addressed in the project follow-up. Forest owners showed a common preference to sell the standing forest (in order to have a high periodic income rather than opting for an annualisation of profits from shared management), and the preference of purchasing contracts with logging companies for individual utilisations (rather than the possibility of taking multi-year management with the associated risks). ITHub 3 - Sustainable Forest Management and Ecosystem Services FOREST4EU partner: UNIFI OG: PRI.FOR.MAN OG’s country: Italy Type of Innovation: Organisational Lessons learned The application of the sharing-profits methodolody created by PRI.FOR.MAN gives the possibility of an allocation of profits not limited to timber extraction, but provided by multifunctional management based on the desiderata of the contractors of the community forest agreements and the reference regulations. It represents a sustainable model both from the economic point of view (as it allows not only a reduction in costs, but also an increase in profits), the environmental point of view (as it ensures proper management of forests), and the social point of view (as it represents a form of participatory forest management, which could also help to maintain the population of mountain areas). Even if underlying this proposal there is a careful assessment of available forest resources, a planning of their utilisation and timber market evaluation, still social awareness that need to be implemented because it's not easy to face the initial mistrust of the forest owners. For further information contact Francesca Giannetti, Assistant Professor, University of Florence, Italy, e-mail: [email protected] Giorgio Alberti, Professor, University of Udine, Italy, e-mail: giorgio.alber[email protected] Luca Cadez, University of Udine, Italy, e-mail: [email protected] The information presented in this factsheet was developed by the FOREST4EU partner, drawing on the innovations and knowledge generated by the indicated operational group with their explicit authorization. Further information Funded by the European Union (Grant n. 101086216). Views and opinions expressed are however those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or REA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. FOREST4EU Project FOREST4EU Project [email protected] https://lookerstudio.google.com/u/0/reporting/2f6c2f81-b78f-446c-ab07-96571d7b6984/page/p_w5k3gvls6c Website Creation of clonal seed orchards for the conservation of Douglas-fir germplasm Introduction Many Douglas-fir stands are more than sixty years old, and traditional silvicultural approaches cannot be separated their regeneration from the availability of suitable seedlings. At present, Douglas-fir seedlings are mainly purchased from foreign nurseries, which does not always guarantee their suitability/adaptability to the Tuscan environment. For this reason, it is essential to have FRM of high phenotypic, genetic and adaptive quality suitable for the Tuscan areas. In order to qualify the regional forest nursery chain for the production of Douglas-fir planting stock, it is important to introduce innovation and quality into the Tuscan nursery chain of this species. With the technical support of CREA-FL (Consiglio per la ricerca in agricoltura e l’analisi dell’economia agraria Foreste e Legno), the Do.Na.To project has created two clonal seed orchards, located at two contrasting altitudes above sea level, for the conservation of Douglas fir germplasm starting from material selected within the best phenotypes of the IUFRO field experiment of provenances and progenies, located at Faltona (Arezzo) and Vallombrosa (Firenze), and constituting the reference for the ex-situ germplasm bank at national and international level. Scions collected from superior phenotypes were collected from the most higher branches in the crown and used for these clonal seed orchards. They were created on public land managed by the Unions of Mountain Municipalities of Mugello and Pistoia Apennines. These grafts will assure Douglas fir germplasm conservation and the mediumlong term supply of genetically tested propagation materials. Lessons learned Genetic conservation and production of high-quality propagation material is very important for Douglas-fir, as it is usually managed by strip clear-cutting followed by seedling plantation (strongly integrated by natural regeneration in good seed years). Instead of buying seedlings from abroad, it's very important to reduce the chance of pest introduction by FMP and guarantee the conservation of local adapted genetic material, especially in the current context of climate change. ITHub 3 - Sustainable Forest Management and Ecosystem Services FOREST4EU partner: UNIFI OG: Do.Na.To OG’s country: Italy Type of Innovation: Technological For further information contact David Pozzi, Project manager, Italy, e-mail: [email protected] Sabrina Raddi, Professor, University of Florence, Italy, e-mail: [email protected] Francesca Giannetti, Assistant Professor, University of Florence, Italy, e-mail: [email protected] The information presented in this factsheet was developed by the FOREST4EU partner, drawing on the innovations and knowledge generated by the indicated operational group with their explicit authorization. Further information Funded by the European Union (Grant n. 101086216). Views and opinions expressed are however those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or REA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. FOREST4EU Project FOREST4EU Project [email protected] https://www.progettodonato.it/ Website Good practices in Do.Na.To Project communication and technical formation Introduction Forestry innovative projects are very important from a technical, operational and even experimental point of view, but if there is no way of transferring the knowledge and the scientific results obtained to the territory and to the supply chains, they are an end in themselves. For this reason, the importance of communication on the management of Douglas fir forests has proved to be crucial for the dissemination of knowledge and innovation in Tuscany, a region where this species has a long history of over 100 years of silviculture and still a great potential. Within the Do.Na.To. project, Compagnia delle Foreste, a publishing company specialised in the forestry sector, was the partner in charge of communication, with the aim of reaching as many stakeholders as possible through various information products and platforms. In particular, it took care of the image of the operating group and provided information on the activities carried out and the results achieved through: website, newsletters, brochures, interviews and videos. The Accademia dei Gergofili also organised three conferences to promote the initial, intermediate and final results of the project, with publication of the proceedings attended by academics, researchers and forest managers on the themes of: The role of Douglas-fir in climate change mitigation and adaptation; Future perspectives for Douglas-fir cultivation in Tuscany; Valorisation of Tuscan Douglas-fir wood products; Revitalisation of the Tuscan regional nursery for the production of quality seedlings; Historical Vallombrosa stands contribution to the Do.Na.To. project; Demonstration areas for natural regeneration of Douglas-fi. In addition, in order to stimulate knowledge acquisition within the partnership, a series of guided tours were organised in Germany to show demonstration sites to stakeholders with the aim of learning new knowledge about Douglas fir management and exchanging views with experts from other European countries. This was very important to visualise the medium to long term effects of the silvicultural protocols applied and to obtain detailed information on the possible impacts of Douglas fir management. ITHub 3 - Sustainable Forest Management and Ecosystem Services FOREST4EU partner: UNIFI OG: Do.Na.To OG’s country: Italy Type of Innovation: Organisational Lessons learned The partnership between the actors of the OGs demonstrated the effectiveness of 'networking', a fundamental condition for sharing and integrating in practice market requirements with environmental and scientific innovation, and human, historical, cultural and landscape heritage. The bus tour with the various territorial actors active in the chestnut sector was a good way to stimulate and bring them into the field. One of the most important result was the desire and the concrete possibility of activating a Regional Plan for Chestnut Growing as a result of the cooperation between the EmiliaRomagna Region and the Consortia of Chestnut Growers, some of which were united in a coordination, and other public and private stakeholders. For further information contact Carla Paola Scotti, Project Coordinator, Italy, email: [email protected] Livia Antisari, Professor, University of Bologna, Italy, email: [email protected] Francesca Giannetti, Assistant Professor, University of Florence, Italy, e-mail: [email protected] The information presented in this factsheet was developed by the FOREST4EU partner, drawing on the innovations and knowledge generated by the indicated operational group with their explicit authorization. Further information Funded by the European Union (Grant n. 101086216). Views and opinions expressed are however those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or REA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. FOREST4EU Project FOREST4EU Project [email protected] https://www.pedologia.net/it/BIODIVERSAMENTECASTAGNO/cms/Pagina.action?pageAction=&page=InfoSuolo.47&localeSite=it, https://ec.europa.eu/eip/agriculture/en/find-connect/projects/castani-co-%E2%80%9Cil-sequestro-di-carbonio-nelsistema.html Website Use of Bite technology for tree infusion in chestnut groves Introduction Traditionally, in fruit tree crops phytosanitary control has always been done by canopy spraying, that caused a high product dispersion in the environment, high delivery time of application, less absorption and lower results in responding to phytosanitary attacks. In chestnut groves this control method is either too burdensome and inapplicable due to the considerable size of the plants or even non applied at all. Endotherapy can be applied to chestnut trees regardless of their height and location, take less time than traditional methodology and don’t dissipate the product, with better results. A single tree treatment requires roughly 10 minutes and, since more trees can be treated simultaneously, a chestnut farmer can manage to treat a chestnut grove in 1 or 2 days. The device requires no electricity to operate and reduces water consumption by more than 99% compared to spraying treatments (water consumption is a few ml per tree, therefore an absolutely negligible quantity). The cost of the device is around 1300 € and the cost of a commercial Thrichoderma package is around 200 €; however, as the product is very concentrated (billions of spores) it will be sufficient for 5 years or more, depending on the scale of application. One of the advantages of using the Bite technology, is that unlike other pressure endotherapic tools, it penetrates the internal tissues of the tree with a very thin needle that causes a little wound, that can be recovered in about a week. For rapid and optimal absorption of the injected suspension, it is necessary that the treatment is carried out during the vegetative season, when the trees are at their maximum transpiration rate. Lessons learned This innovative, low-impact instrument has shown very good results in the phytosanitary control of tree diseases, with no environmental impact, a minimum impact on the plant, and a reduced time-consumption for the application. Given the reduced time required for the treatments, the high cost of the instrument can be reduced by organizing chestnut growers in a consortium, in order to make a community purchase to recover the expense. ITHub 3 - Sustainable Forest Management and Ecosystem Services FOREST4EU partner: UNIFI OG: INGECA OG’s country: Italy Type of Innovation: Technological For further information contact Salvatore Moricca, Professor, University of Florence, Italy, email: [email protected] Rodolfo Picchio, Professor, University of Tuscia, Italy, email: [email protected] Francesca Giannetti, Assistant Professor, University of Florence, Italy, e-mail: [email protected] The information presented in this factsheet was developed by the FOREST4EU partner, drawing on the innovations and knowledge generated by the indicated operational group with their explicit authorization. Further information Funded by the European Union (Grant n. 101086216). Views and opinions expressed are however those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or REA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. FOREST4EU Project FOREST4EU Project [email protected] https://www.psingeca.it/it Website Carbon accounting for PES Introduction Forests offer more than just wood and non-wood materials; they provide a wide range of additional services, including creating habitats for biodiversity, purifying water, and regulating floods and climate. Their ability to sequester carbon, provide cooling effects, and supply renewable raw materials, food, and medicines is essential in combating climate change, transitioning to a circular bioeconomy, and promoting overall societal health. The economic sustainability of the EU's forest sector continues to be a fundamental aspect of sustainable forest management. Moreover, this economic sustainability is critically significant for preserving the various advantages that forests offer to society, particularly for ensuring the livelihoods of rural communities. Both public and private payments for forest ecosystem services offer an alternative means to secure funding for multifunctional and protective forest management and the sustainable upkeep of ecosystem services. In this context, it is important to establish methods for quantifying these ecosystem services. Among the services with a potential market, carbon is the most developed. In Italy, there is no formalized market yet, and activities are primarily in the voluntary sector. In this scenario, calculating the Business as Usual (BAU) and offsetting resulting from management is crucial. To have a picture of the BAU, it's essential to find methodologies as standardized as possible and accurately quantify carbon. In our case, using ground biomass data, we were able to derive a model using an area-based approach, integrating remote sensing data (Sentinel-2 satellite) for various tree species, and then converting this value into carbon as 0.5 of the biomass. At this time, this data has not been used to enter the carbon credit market but solely to establish a reference framework for the BAU and to initiate proposed management changes, with the intention of calculating offsets later on. Lessons learned Remote sensing data can be valuable in quantifying biomass at the company level when integrated with ground data. This approach has enabled the precise assessment of biomass and the identification of various forest types. However, to date, it has not been possible to quantify the credits resulting from management offsets, but rather to establish an initial reference framework. ITHub 3 - Sustainable Forest Management and Ecosystem Services FOREST4EU partner: UNIFI OG: FOR.TRACK OG’s country: Italy Type of Innovation: Technological For further information contact Francesca Giannetti, Assistant Professor, University of Florence, Italy, e-mail: [email protected] The information presented in this factsheet was developed by the FOREST4EU partner, drawing on the innovations and knowledge generated by the indicated operational group with their explicit authorization. Further information Funded by the European Union (Grant n. 101086216). Views and opinions expressed are however those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or REA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. FOREST4EU Project FOREST4EU Project [email protected] https://fortrack.it/ Website Questionnaire for the assessment of the willingness to pay for cultural-tourist ecosystem services Introduction The OG conducted an experimental analysis on the Monte Nerone area to evaluate the willingness to pay for the implemetation of tourist-recreational services. The study area is located in the Marche Apennines, 60 km from the coast (a very touristic area), it’s easily accessible and has a good road network. The object of the research was to assess the value of the ecosystem services provided by the forest. The data collection was done through a questionnaire to the visitors, preceded by a brief description of the area attempting to inform visitors of its cultural, architectural and environmental, naturalistic and landscape values. The questionnaire asked for biographical information, educational qualification, average income bracket, frequency of visit, and an evaluation of the main ecosystem services the area was able to provide (providing a grid of ecosystem services characterising the area as support for the answer). The evaluation was carried out with a double key, on the one hand assessing the evaluation of the importance of the various ecosystem services for the users (e.g. the landscape, biodiversity, etc., with answer scores of 1-7), and on the other asking how the Nerone area responded according to their perception. These two parameters were considered as fundamental to determine their willingness to pay. In the end, participants were asked to survey express their interest and their willingness to pay for a parking space (assessment per vehicle not per person, per day). The money collected would be reinvested in the area to improve services and maintain the area. ITHub 3 - Sustainable Forest Management and Ecosystem Services FOREST4EU partner: UNIFI OG: BIOSEIFORTE OG’s country: Italy Type of Innovation: Process Lessons learned After the data analysis, a willingness to pay 7/8 euros was estimated. Most visitors are willing to pay for an access point with information and toilets and then go on an excursion. There was no ostracism only very few answers the environment belongs to everyone and they are not willing to pay. No real implementation has followed so far. Difficulties in data collection (number of questionnaires about 90 completed, some filled in poorly, not usable). The thesis collector who collected the data took advantage of the possibility of collecting the information at events, but in general it is very difficult to find people. An attempt was made to collect data on Facebook but they were not found to be reliable. The people interviewed were very willing to answer, but these questionnaires are often too long for people who were passing by on holiday. It is also difficult to balance between the level of detail one would like to achieve and the immediacy of the answers. If you want very large samples and detailed information, the period is very long. For further information contact Carlo Urbinati, Professor, Polytechnic University of Marche, Italy, email: [email protected]nivpm.it Danilo Gambelli, Associate Professor, Polytechnic University of Marche, Italy, email: [email protected] Francesca Giannetti, Assistant Professor, University of Florence, Italy, e-mail: [email protected] The information presented in this factsheet was developed by the FOREST4EU partner, drawing on the innovations and knowledge generated by the indicated operational group with their explicit authorization. Further information Funded by the European Union (Grant n. 101086216). Views and opinions expressed are however those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or REA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. FOREST4EU Project FOREST4EU Project [email protected] https://www.innovarurale.it/pei-agri/gruppi-operativi/bancadati-go-pei/biodiversita-e-servizi-ecosistemici-foreste-e-territorio Website Pine Wood Nematode Introduction This project aimed to overcome the constraints caused by PWD, combining new forms of forest management, fight, methods of early detection of infected trees and decrease their impact, control the natural dispersion of the insect vector (Monochamus galloprovincialis), reduce costs of disease control actions and contribute to restore the confidence of landowners for the maintenance, plantation and management of new areas of maritime pine. It is also intended to analyze the types of trees that can be infected, the influence of forest fires on the natural dispersion of PWN, to evaluate the emergence and flight of the vector under different climatic conditions, to minimize the risk of forest operations during their flight period and to create zones of active containment where it is possible to act more effectively to avoid the dispersion of PWN to the non-infected pine forests. Phases and conclusions 1. Creation of an Active Containment Zone (ZCA), with borders, and it was observed that the Pine Wilt Disease (MPD) spread approximately 6 km in a year, within a maritime pine (Pinus pinaster) stand, without roads paved and with very limited access. Arrangement of multi-funnel traps along the border area of the transect. 2. Determination of early tree detection methods potentially infectedAssess the risk of disease installation in trees with different ages/dimensions. It was observed that larger pine trees are more likely to be selected by Monochamus galloprovincialis and becoming infected by the Wood Nematode Pine (NMP), mainly in populations with a low incidence of DMP. 3. Evaluation of new methods for controlling the natural dispersion of vectors infected with MPNEvaluate the period of emergence and flight of the vector in different climate conditions. During 2021, 527 were captured in the traps installed in Seia. specimens of M. galloprovincialis. The largest number of insects was captured in the second week of October (131 copies, corresponding to 24.9% of the total captures). In the traps installed in Soure, only 62 specimens were captured and the peak of catches (61% of the total) occurred earlier than in Seia, between 11 June and July 9. ITHub 3 - Sustainable Forest Management and Ecosystem Services FOREST4EU partner: SOLUTOPUS OG: GI (PIN) OG’s country: Portugal Type of Innovation: technological Lessons learned Based on the commercialized trap model, and taking into account the results obtained in the test carried out in 2020, two changes were made to the collection cup to test the decrease in catches of non-target species. The experimental design used was the Latin square with rotation of the position of the traps weekly and the Galloprotect 2D-Plus attractant was identical for all. The results obtained reveal that the three trap models used captured 44 specimens of the target species M. galloprovincialis, in quantities statistically similar. It can be concluded that the use of the collection cup modified by the manufacturer is suitable for obtaining a targeted capture of the target species, which is the insect vector of PMN, being a considerable evolution with ecological importance as it causes a residual impact in the remaining entomofauna, namely auxiliary species (predators) or protected. The results of the project were afected by the delay in the financial subvention, Several presentations were made, but lacks of a broad dissemination of the lessons learned. The information presented in this factsheet was developed by the FOREST4EU partner, drawing on the innovations and knowledge generated by the indicated operational group with their explicit authorization. Further information Funded by the European Union (Grant n. 101086216). Views and opinions expressed are however those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or REA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. FOREST4EU Project FOREST4EU Project [email protected] https://inovacao.rederural.gov.pt/2/114-gi-pin-gestao-integrada-do-pinhal-nematode-da-madeira-do-pinheiro [email protected] - https://federacaoflorestal.pt/ https://inovacao.rederural.gov.pt/images/imagens/Docs_GO/29-_OG_GI_PIN.pdf Website Assessment of the drudgery of work during the planting phase Introduction In the context of climate change, planting appears to be a major tool for guaranteeing the adaptation and sustainability of forests, with species that will respond better to tomorrow's climates and provide a response to situations where natural regeneration is blocked. In recent years, planting has been given a boost with the introduction of the recovery plan, with the aim of planting 45,000 hectares in addition to the 50,000 hectares already planted annually. However, these operations are causing difficulties, as expressed by the various players, particularly forestry operators. Indeed, these operations are recognised as arduous and give rise to work-related illnesses and accidents, such as musculoskeletal disorders. The aim of the PIF project was to develop plantation management methods that meet the social and environmental expectations expressed by stakeholders. One of the aims of the project was to identify the phases of work carried out by the workers during planting and to assess the arduousness of each of them, in order to identify possible recommendations for reducing this hardship. Methodology and results Seven work sites were monitored between the end of the winters of 2020-2021 and 2021-2022. The aim was to study contrasting work sites in order to assess the effects of different conditions on the difficulty of the work (posture, duration or number of strokes required to put the soil in the ground). Two or three workers were monitored and filmed for one hour. This monitoring made it possible to complete an evaluation grid and thus obtain an overall rating for the arduousness, duration and average number of movements for each stage of the planting process. The phases encountered during the various monitoring sessions include moving between each plant, stripping, digging the hole, planting and compacting. The average duration of a tree planting cycle on the various sites is 32 seconds. This time may vary depending on the site, the individual and the attention given to planting. The phases of making the hole and planting the seedling appear to be the most arduous and the most repetitive. Posture, but also repetitiveness and therefore the duration of the phases, are major factors in the arduousness. The different contexts studied do not seem to have had any major effect on the postures of the planters. This difficulty is accentuated when there are stumps, coarse elements or slash on the site. Mechanised preparation of the soil has a direct impact on reducing the number of strokes and therefore reduces the workload. Difficulties in moving around the sites, carrying heavy loads and the distance from the plant storage ITHub 3 - Sustainable Forest Management and Ecosystem Services FOREST4EU partner: CNPF OG: PIF OG’s country: France Type of Innovation: Process action is accepted are those affected by dieback and/or biotic attacks. In order to offset the cost of reforestation and ensure sufficient revenue, it was proposed that living trees should be harvested by thinning. For non-declining stands, thinning was also proposed on the basis of biodiversity conservation criteria. The volume of wood cut is likely to be small and from a variety of species, which makes it difficult to commercialise. However, by grouping together, it is possible to offer sufficient volume to interest buyers. The CNPF has launched a call for proposals to estimate the volume and value of the thinning. This was sent to all the owners to obtain their agreement before the call for proposals was launched. However, the municipality's agreement could not be obtained before the end of the project. As a result, the worksite in the communal forest could not be approved, blocking the effective launch of the overall worksite. Lessons learned The municipality's commitment enabled a calm and effective dialogue, leading to the mobilisation of a number of private owners. To gain the trust of the owners, the preferred method was to approach them collectively and individually. This method led to a felling and reforestation project being proposed for 4 landowners representing 15 hectares in the commune. In communal forests, the procedures for submitting land to the forestry legislation are very demanding, generating a caution and a long reflection period. In the absence of submission to the forestry legislation and of a Standard Management Agreement, it is not possible to draw up a sustainable management document for the communal forest, which then remains ineligible for subsidies. It seems difficult to envisage joint management unless private owners align themselves with the worksites, service providers and buyers identified by the national forestry office. The current situation is that the forestry code is designed to completely and systematically separate public management from private management. A national review of changes to the forestry code should therefore be considered in order to envisage joint management. The information presented in this factsheet was developed by the FOREST4EU partner, drawing on the innovations and knowledge generated by the indicated operational group with their explicit authorization. Further information Funded by the European Union (Grant n. 101086216). Views and opinions expressed are however those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or REA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. FOREST4EU Project FOREST4EU Project [email protected] https://www.xn--reseau-national-agricultures-ruralits-bkd.fr/centre-de-ressources/projets/fpp-egg-forets-privees-et-publiques-essai-degestion-groupee Website Innovative tools for collaborative forest management Introduction Wood production, biodiversity conservation, protection against natural risks, public reception for recreational activities, carbon storage... The forest provides multiple services at the origin of sometimes contradictory management issues which can generate conflicts between players. To reconcile all of these issues, the tools available to forestry stakeholders are increasingly numerous: remote sensing, field protocols, models, participatory approaches, etc. If these tools are co-constructed, articulated between them and shared with all stakeholders, they can contribute to the success of sustainable forest management. Methodology and results LiDAR technology, Sylvacess model, diagnosis of the sensitivity of a stand to logging, protocol for characterizing mature forests... So many tools available to stakeholders in the territory and the timber industry to better understand and manage their forests. The OUI-GEF project aimed to help these actors take advantage of these tools and create multi-partner and concerted forest management. Carried out in three Regional Natural Parks (PNR), OUI-GEF is structured around three specific objectives. The first consisted of providing a more detailed understanding of the forest resource, its ecosystem services, the behaviour of certain species sensitive to climate change such as spruce or fir, and knowing where the islands of old wood necessary for the preservation of the biodiversity. The second objective was to identify the conditions for mobilizing the resource (access, slopes, dragging distance) and the potential economic, environmental and social impacts of logging, and to study the behaviour of private forest owners in order to determine their motivations for exploiting their forest. The third objective aimed to promote the sharing of knowledge between stakeholders, an essential issue to achieve multi-partner and concerted forest management in the territories. OUI-GEF has resulted in the creation of numerous tools and methods for the benefit of stakeholders and managers, including: • An innovative method for carrying out a forest inventory, based on LiDAR technology; ITHub 3 - Sustainable Forest Management and Ecosystem Services FOREST4EU partner: CNPF OG: OUI-GEG OG’s country: France Type of Innovation: Social • Automatic mapping of the accessibility of forest stands in mountain areas using Sylvaccess software; • A method for diagnosing the sensitivity of a stand to felling and estimating the effect of the intervention; • Operational models to map forests with a protective function (avalanches and rockfalls); • A simplified field protocol to identify mature forests, an essential element of the old woodland network. An analysis of approaches to valorizing local wood resources which highlights the processes by which the value of local wood is built during the creation of a Wood Energy platform or an AOC (controlled designation of origin). An online educational game to understand how forest wood, properly managed, transported, stored and burned, can advantageously replace other non-renewable resources to heat our homes. The challenge for the years to come is to continue the dissemination of tools and the sharing of knowledge resulting from the project. An online geocatalogue to encourage transfer. This geo-referenced metadata base brings together information on the data used by researchers and stakeholders involved in forest management: maps, field surveys, stand analysis grid, etc. It is accompanied by appropriate instructions for concrete issues in order to support the realization of forestry projects. Lessons learned OUI-GEF has made it possible to develop operational and transferable tools offering stakeholders and managers the opportunity to better understand forests, their populations, their functions, etc. The active involvement of PNR project managers has encouraged strong mobilization of local stakeholders to participate in tests, respond to surveys and provide feedback on project output The information presented in this factsheet was developed by the FOREST4EU partner, drawing on the innovations and knowledge generated by the indicated operational group with their explicit authorization. Further information Funded by the European Union (Grant n. 101086216). Views and opinions expressed are however those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or REA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. FOREST4EU Project FOREST4EU Project [email protected] https://www.psdr-ra.fr/boite-a-outils/filiere-bois-foret Website Using UAV photogrammetric data to support multi-objective forest management plans Introduction In the Italian and European context, there is an increasing demand for forest and agroforestry companies to focus on multifunctionality. Furthermore, in recent years, the possibility of certifying some ecosystem services and multifunctional services has emerged. The first step toward certification is to have a sustainable forest management plan that details these aspects. In the case of the OG SURF project, to obtain spatial data covering the entire forested areas within the project intervention zones, a fixed-wing UAV was used to derive some of the multifunctionality indicators. High-resolution orthophotos, for instance, were utilized to map forest types linked to biodiversity and conservation. Infrared orthophotos were employed to identify the presence of standing deadwood, which serves as a proxy for biodiversity analysis related, for example, to saproxylic insects. Additionally, roads and trails were mapped to identify potential tourist routes. The UAV has enabled the accurate mapping of some of these indicators, which are subsequently integrated into the decision support system. These data can be used to develop multifunctional and multi-objective management plans. Lessons learned The cost of the UAV used for mapping is indeed quite high, but companies have the option to collaborate with service providers rather than purchasing one themselves. The generated data, however, are crucial for developing multi-objective management plans. Compared to traditional survey methods, these data save time in terms of fieldwork. The use of this data also provides standardized information across the entire area, which is valuable for working towards certification of ecosystem services. ITHub 3 - Sustainable Forest Management and Ecosystem Services FOREST4EU partner: UNIFI OG: SURF OG’s country: Italy Type of Innovation: Technological For further information contact Francesca Giannetti, Assistant Professor, University of Florence, Italy, e-mail: francesca.gi[email protected]t The information presented in this factsheet was developed by the FOREST4EU partner, drawing on the innovations and knowledge generated by the indicated operational group with their explicit authorization. Further information Funded by the European Union (Grant n. 101086216). Views and opinions expressed are however those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or REA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. FOREST4EU Project FOREST4EU Project [email protected] https://www.go-surf.it/ Website Decisional Support System to support the revision of forest management plans Introduction The Common International Classification System of Ecosystem Services (CICES) categorizes ecosystem services into three primary groups: i) provisioning, ii) regulation and maintenance, and iii) cultural, and they can be evaluated both in terms of their physical attributes and their economic value. A physical assessment relies on biophysical models of ecosystem services that take into account the functions and processes of ecosystems necessary to provide the specific service. Within the GO-FORTRACK, were employed various spatial approaches to quantify physical aspects related to some ecosystem services. Specifically, we developed maps for carbon, biomass, and forest types, which can be associated with ecosystem services related to prediction, regulation, and maintenance. These maps were then integrated into a simple decision support system within the project's test areas, enabling forest managers to access this information at the individual forest parcel scale. It was decided to derive this information at the forest parcel scale because, in the context of Italian forestry laws, which require that a forest management plan be approved by the relevant public authority, it is always necessary to describe each individual parcel and provide quantitative data. This system can help maintain parcel records and automatically generate the parcel cards/reports required by law. Lessons learned This straightforward report automation tool allows forest managers to save time on report and plan writing, which can then be allocated to other forest management-related activities. It can significantly reduce the costs associated with the drafting and development of a forest management plan. Additionally, the availability of various maps within the system aids in the analysis of plan objectives and interventions, providing a more detailed knowledge framework. ITHub 3 - Sustainable Forest Management and Ecosystem Services FOREST4EU partner: UNIFI OG: FOR.TRACK OG’s country: Italy Type of Innovation: Technological For further information contact Francesca Giannetti, Assistant Professor, University of Florence, Italy, e-mail: francesca.gi[email protected] The information presented in this factsheet was developed by the FOREST4EU partner, drawing on the innovations and knowledge generated by the indicated operational group with their explicit authorization. Further information Funded by the European Union (Grant n. 101086216). Views and opinions expressed are however those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or REA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. FOREST4EU Project FOREST4EU Project [email protected] https://fortrack.it/ Website A User-Friendly Platform for Bridging the Gap between Carbon Credit Demand and Supply Introduction At the beginning of CO2 Marche project, the market of additional Carbon credits was still not very popular in Italy. For that, in the context of sustainable forest management certification, was created a new platform for the voluntary sustainability credit exchange. The goal of the platform is to connect demand and supply of carbon credits deriving from Sustainable Forest Management in a voluntary trading market for tonnes of stored carbon with additionality criteria (not counted by the Italian government under the Kyoto and Paris Agreements). Also for the offer, the platform is accessible not only to the project partners, but to any operator wishing to undertake the carbon certification and counting route. When an acquirent is interested in supporting a specific additional project, the first thing is to specifically identify the area’s characteristics and the kind of activity that will be put in practice, in order to quantify the entity of the positive impacts generated. The control of the quality of the additional credits is accounted by the Inspection Body, which will annually verify compliance with the requirements of the PEFC standards. Forests certified according to Sustainable Forest Management (SFM) are able to store more carbon than unmanaged (i.e. uncut) and untended forests; they contribute to climate change mitigation; they prevent natural and environmental hazards such as forest fires, hydrogeological disruption, soil erosion; they protect biodiversity and the landscape; they offer tourist-recreational attractions and forest products and by-products, along with culture, traditions and work for skilled forest workers. Lessons learned From the point of view of the ecosystem services generated, if these values were confirmed for all the certified areas of the project, Bosco di Marca Group, the active management actions would lead to the absorption of several thousand tonnes of CO2, contributing in parallel to the creation of new business opportunities for forest managers. In fact, taking into consideration the additional actions, in terms of management (e.g. conversion of coppice to tall trees), that could be carried out in beech forests and areas with mixed deciduous trees (which account for approximately ⅔ of the certified surface area), it would be possible to store up to a maximum of approximately 24,000 tonnes of CO2 more each year (i.e. 24,000 sustainability credits). This is without taking into account the presence and increase of other co-benefits derived from Forest Sustainable Management that are not directly measured, such as increased biodiversity, improved water resource management, reduced erosion phenomena, and a positive image linked to tourism related to nature enjoyment. ITHub 3 - Sustainable Forest Management and Ecosystem Services FOREST4EU partner: UNIFI OG: CO2S.Fo.Ma OG’s country: Italy Type of Innovation: Organisational For further information contact Marco Perrino, Project Coordinator, Italy, email: marco [email protected] Francesca Giannetti, Assistant Professor, University of Florence, Italy, e-mail: francesca.gi[email protected]t The information presented in this factsheet was developed by the FOREST4EU partner, drawing on the innovations and knowledge generated by the indicated operational group with their explicit authorization. Further information Funded by the European Union (Grant n. 101086216). Views and opinions expressed are however those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or REA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. FOREST4EU Project FOREST4EU Project [email protected] https://www.co2marche.it/ Website Developing a Novel Martelloscope for Assessing Biodiversity and Growing Stock Volume with the aid of a Digital Twin Introduction As part of the OG, an experimental marteloscope was used, where trees were surveyed through acquisition with the Geoslam ZEB Portable Laser Scanner system, which made it possible to recreate a 3D digital twin. Then, for each of the trees surveyed and forming part of the marteloscope, dendromicrohabitats were then obtained by means of traditional surveying, which made it possible to derive the Index of Potential Biodiversity (IBP) for each tree, in order to be able to introduce the quantification of biodiversity into the forest management plans and provide the users of the "gymnasium" an output in relation not only to productive interventions (wood growing stock) but also silvicultural interventions that take into account the biodivesity parameters. Operationally, in a 1-hectare area of transitional beech stand, each individual tree (tree or sucker) was numbered, measured (crown insertion height and total height) and georeferenced, and its calculated volume and position data recorded in special software. In addition, each individual tree or stump was checked for the presence of dendrothelia (alterations, cavities, cracks in the stem and branches) that may constitute microhabitats for various plant and/or animal species and increase the ecosystem value of the stand in terms of biodiversity. Lessons learned The use of new technologies is becoming more and more widespread in the analysis and monitoring of forest stands, and in particular forestry application of mobile LiDAR is becoming more widespread as it allows a considerable reduction in survey time and costs and returns good data accuracy, whereas up to now it has been used mainly in the building and infrastructure sector. Furthermore, the monitoring and quantification of biodiversity variation based on silvicultural choices made with the marteloscope is a useful added value for forest sustainable management, ecosystem services enhancement, as well as production aspects. ITHub 3 - Sustainable Forest Management and Ecosystem Services FOREST4EU partner: UNIFI OG: BIOSEIFORTE OG’s country: Italy Type of Innovation: Process