Information system

FAO, with the cooperation of experts from member countries, has made a preliminary attempt to compile data for a global information system on the impact of insect pests and disease outbreaks on forests. The pilot system was designed to document, analyse and make available current information about forest health at the country level in order to increase awareness of the severe problems related to forest insect pests and diseases worldwide, and in order to provide up to date information for policy and forest management planning.

A database on the incidence and extent of insect pests and diseases affecting forests over time was tested and a critical economic review of its contents was then carried out. The information was gathered through different sources: through FAO reports from field projects, and via a test questionnaire sent out to selected technical experts.

A first preliminary analysis of the information from Africa has been completed which describes:

  • the most important insect pests and diseases by country (soon available);
  • the major insect pest species affecting forests (soon available);
  • the major diseases affecting forests (soon available).



    If you are interested in providing data on recent outbreaks, please download the questionnaire  and complete it. Please return the completed questionnaire, in either electronic or hard copy, to: Gillian Allard
    Forestry Officer (Forest protection and health)
    Forest Resources Development Service
    Forestry Department, FAO
    Viale delle Terme di Caracalla
    00100 Rome
    Italy
    gillian.allard@fao.org