The FWPA is seeking expressions of interest from individuals or companies with a strong understanding of forest health management practices to develop a business case for a national forest health surveillance and response program. Source: Timberbiz
Proactive management of forest health in response to a wide range of pests and diseases is critical to the productivity and viability of commercial forestry.
Given the mobility of pests and pathogens, there are strong arguments for collaboration within and between major commercial forestry regions.
Over recent years there has been a significant decline in the number of skilled forest pathologists, researchers and extension agents within the commercial forest sector.
Forecast trends indicate that a change in the overall forest health ‘business model’ needs to be identified and implemented by the forest industries to maintain industry access to expert information.
One approach is to consider leveraging recent advances in remote sensing and electronic communications and to establish a collaborative national network of forest health specialists.
This group would provide a remote diagnostics and advice service to support field foresters to monitor estate health and deliver best practice interventions. It could assist in developing systems and tools that can be applied at a customised regional level linked to specific tree species and silvicultural practices.
FWPA has undertaken exploratory work on a national program, which was included as a part of a comprehensive business case for an expansion of collaborative activities. FWPA has also funded some supporting research under its Biosecurity R&D investment plan.
In consultation with an industry reference group, the consultancy will need to address the key issues that relate to the potential establishment of a national forest health surveillance and response program.
Information about key issues that must be addressed and deliverables is available from the FWPA with a detailed proposal due on July 3, 2013.
More information from Chris Lafferty at FWPA [email protected] or call 03 99273220.
