The PLANFORLAB project will enhance the resilience and sustainable use of conifer forests.
- It will establish a network of forest laboratories using genetically improved plant material and adaptive silviculture techniques.
- It also aims to promote the economic sustainability of forest managers by improving timber quality.
- The deployment of a digital platform is planned to facilitate the exchange of data and experiences among target stakeholders.
The PLANFORLAB Project is an innovative initiative aimed at creating a network of forest laboratories using genetically improved plant material, with the goal of increasing the resilience and productivity of commercial conifer forests in Spain. It is implemented within the framework of the CAP Strategic Plan 2023–2027, with funding from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAPA) and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD). The project aims to apply the latest advances in genetic improvement and adaptive silviculture to address the challenges arising from climate change, as well as forest pests and diseases affecting conifer stands, particularly the species Pinus pinaster, Pinus radiata and Pinus sylvestris.
One of the project’s key initiatives is the creation of “forest laboratories.” These experimental and learning forest areas will be established in high-risk sanitary zones, enabling the implementation and monitoring of innovative silvicultural techniques and improved genetic material. The forest laboratories will also serve as demonstration and research sites, providing valuable information on climate change adaptation and resistance to diseases.
In addition, PLANFORLAB will establish a digital collaboration network to facilitate the exchange of experiences and results related to the genetic improvement of forest plants and strategies to combat the most harmful diseases. This network will provide technology centres, silviculturists, forest managers and decision-makers with up-to-date information and forecasts on the effectiveness of new practices and materials.
The project aims to improve forest income in a viable and sustainable manner, enhance the competitiveness of forest holdings through research, technology and digitalisation, contribute to climate change adaptation, and promote sustainable development and the efficient management of natural resources.
The project is made up of the following partners and collaborating members:
- Asociación Forestal de Galicia (AFG)
- Federación de Asociaciones Forestales de Castilla y León (FAFCYLE)
- Confederación de Forestalistas del País Vasco (CFPV)
- TRAGSA (Empresa de Transformación Agraria)
- FEUGA (Fundación Empresa-Universidad Gallega)
- Confederación de Organizaciones de Selvicultores de España (COSE)
- Centro de Investigación Forestal de Lourizán
- NEIKER Technology Centre
- Fundación General de la Universidad de Valladolid (FUNGE UVa)
- CSIC-ICIFOR
The PLANFORLAB project is implemented within the framework of the CAP Strategic Plan (PEPAC) 2023–2027, co-funded 80% by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) of the European Union and 20% by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAPA). The Directorate-General for Rural Development, Innovation and Agri-Food Training (DGDRIFA) is the authority responsible for implementing these grants.
Total project budget: €599,134.22. Total grant: €599,134.22.
