Frequently asked questions

This initiative supports coordinated action on harmful insects affecting agriculture, forestry and natural ecosystems around the Black Sea. It brings together research, monitoring and extension activities so that riparian countries can align surveillance, share evidence and respond earlier to invasive or economically damaging species.

The work is carried out under the European Union framework for cooperation and investment in the wider Black Sea region. Funding follows EU rules for grants and partnership actions; specific programme names and call references are published in the official project factsheet and grant agreement.

Partners typically include public research institutes, plant health and phytosanitary services, universities, extension services and industry associations from Black Sea coastal and neighbouring states. The exact consortium list is maintained on the project website and updated if new associates join.

Objectives include harmonising monitoring methods, improving identification capacity for priority pests, strengthening early warning, and promoting Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and sustainable control practices. Expected results include shared protocols, training materials, survey data, policy-oriented reports and recommendations for national authorities.

The implementation period is defined in the grant agreement (start and end dates, milestones). Public summaries, work packages and deliverables are published on the project portal. For legally binding texts, refer to the versions signed with the funding authority and any amendments.

Priorities reflect EU and national quarantine lists, regional pest risk analyses and crops under pressure—examples include fruit flies, bark beetles, defoliators and other groups that threaten orchards, forests or stored products. The priority list is reviewed as new detections or risk assessments emerge.

Monitoring combines trapping networks (pheromone or food-based traps where appropriate), field scouting, citizen and stakeholder reports, and laboratory confirmation. Methods follow international standards where possible so that results are comparable across borders.

Warmer seasons, altered precipitation and shifting land use can extend flight periods, increase generation numbers and allow some species to expand their range. The project incorporates climate-aware risk outlooks into guidance so that monitoring intensity and timing can be adapted.

Do not move infested plant material off-site. Note the exact location, host plant, date and, if safe, take clear photos. Report immediately to your national plant health or phytosanitary authority using their official channels. Early official notification is essential for containment.

Yes. IPM—combining monitoring, thresholds, cultural measures, biological control and careful use of plant protection products when necessary—is central to the technical recommendations. The aim is to reduce reliance on broad-spectrum treatments and to protect beneficial organisms and water quality.

Collaboration may take the form of associated partners, demonstration sites, provision of local data or participation in workshops. Expressions of interest should be sent through the contact form on the project website, describing your organisation’s role and the contribution you can offer.

Use your country’s official plant health reporting route (hotline, web form or mobile app where available). The project website may link to these national channels. Unverified social media posts are not a substitute for official reporting.

Validated survey results and pest records are communicated through national competent authorities in line with EU plant health law and international obligations (e.g. EPPO). Aggregated, non-sensitive outputs may also appear in public reports and scientific publications.

The project develops factsheets, identification aids, webinar recordings and face-to-face training where resources allow. Materials are published on the website and announced via newsletters. Some events may target inspectors, farmers or advisors specifically.

For media enquiries, use the project communication email indicated on the website. For technical or scientific questions, contact the work package leads or the coordinating institution as listed in the “Partners” section. Please allow a few working days for a coordinated reply.