PurPest technical visits

As part of the 2025 PurPest project meeting, participants took part in a technical visit to a forested area in Tróia, Portugal, severely affected by pine wilt disease caused by the pinewood nematode (Bursaphelenchus xylophilus). This field visit offered researchers and stakeholders a first-hand look at the ecological impacts of the disease on maritime pine ecosystems.

Participants observed symptomatic trees and discussed current detection methods, integrated pest management strategies, best practices, and future actions. The visit highlighted the urgent need for coordinated action across Europe to contain the spread of this destructive pest and the importance of developing rapid detection and monitoring technologies, such as the sensor system prototype actively being developed by the PurPest consortium.

After crossing the Sado River by ferry, the group toured PALSER, a certified wood and pallet treatment facility located in Palmela. The facility operates in full compliance with ISPM-15, an international standard designed to prevent the cross-border movement of harmful pests via untreated wood packaging materials. PurPest’s commitment to bridging scientific research with practical field applications reinforces the project’s role in safeguarding Europe’s forests through innovation and collaboration.