The Regional Director for Forest Resources stated today that the Azores have implemented specific techniques and "good practices in terms of forest management" in order to control invasive species in the archipelago, achieving "very positive" results.

"Good forest practices, such as the careful management of leftover cuttings, the control of invasive species prior to planting, deep maintenance actions and the removal of plants, are decisive to the success of actions towards the reduction of invasive species," said Anabela Isidoro. She spoke on the sidelines of the Seminar on Invasive Alien Species taking place in the Canaries.
 
In a session open to the public, the results achieved in the Azores were presented as regards to the research conducted and management practices implemented in the forest, namely the control of "Gunnera tinctoria" (Chilean Rhubarb), "Pittosporum undulatum" (Australian Cheesewood) and "Hedychium gardnerianum" (Kahili Ginger).

This seminar has been organised following the La Palma Declaration signed in 2006 by the governments of the Azores, Madeira and the Canaries. It brings together experts to discuss and find solutions for common problems in the region of Macaronesia, namely common problems related to invasive species.

According to Anabela Isidoro, it was decided that the next Macaronesia Forest Days will take place in March 2019 on the island of Santiago, Cape Verde, the southernmost archipelago of Macaronesia.

Cape Verde, which has participated since 2006 in these works as a guest region, will organise the Macaronesia Forest Days for the first time.