FoRISK Kicks Off: Building a Strong Network for Forest Risk Prevention, Management and Collaboration
The pan-European Forest Risk Facility (FoRISK) kick-off meeting, focusing on Steering Committee formation, took place on Monday, April 28, marking a significant milestone in the establishment of this innovative network. During the meeting, key steps were approved to form the governing bodies, define relationships with FOREST EUROPE signatories and observers, and outline the initial work program giving a strategic direction of the Facility.
The Steering Committee (SC), currently featuring representatives from Germany, Slovakia, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Luxembourg and Czechia, besides the participation of potential SC member countries like Bulgaria, Switzerland, and Greece, entered an open discussion and discussed the way forward with the FoRISK Secretariat. They also touched base on the progress on collaborations with expert networks, including the Czech University of Life Sciences in Prague on biotic hazards in forests and the Baden-Württemberg Forest Research Institute on windstorms.
A notable highlight was the dynamic wind-blow strategy for Ireland, initiated by Minister Haely-Rae and supported by the Rapid Response team of the FoRISK Facility. This strategy is already in motion, demonstrating FoRISK’s proactive approach to addressing forest challenges. A follow-up workshop is scheduled for early May, providing further insights and updates (more info here).
With the first events, collaborations, and communication strategies in the planning stages, FoRISK has officially launched, setting the stage for a productive first year. The facility aims to sustain a stable collaboration network, focusing on three focal areas, such as windstorm, wildfire and biotic agents, to drive research, transboundary collaboration and innovation towards resilient forests.
Stay tuned for more updates as FoRISK continues to grow and make strides in international forest risk management cooperation.