SLU Forest Damage Centre

We prevent and monitor forest damage

We research, analyze and monitor forest damage in order to equip the Swedish forest against today's and tomorrow's risks of damage. We create and collect knowledge for forest health.

With a focus on responsible forestry, preservation of natural values, and biological diversity, we contribute to sustainable social development under changing climate conditions.

Forest damage related news from SLU

19 November 2024
Pests and pathogens cause devastation in nature reserves
It may be tempting to perceive damaged forests as primarily a problem for the forest owner or the industry. A factor affecting price on wood, but of limited importance to society. Pests and pathogens can however cause great devastation to treasured nature reserves, and diminish their ecological, cultural, social or aesthetic values. Relatively speaking, the effects can be greater than in productive forests, since the reserves’ management guidelines can make it difficult to protect them.
11 November 2024
Severe pine twisting rust in Scots pine increases the probability of Diplodia tip blight
In a new study, SLU researchers has investigated if the fungal disease pine twisting rust makes the pines more susceptible to Diplodia tip blight. ”The more the trees struggled with pine twisting rust, the more Diplodia we found in the shoots over the summer”, says Matilda Stein Åslund. There is likely a genetic component to this that can be used in pine breeding.
05 November 2024
Early insights of forest disturbance with remote sensing – researchers shared knowledge at international workshop
Researchers from across Europe gathered, focusing on how remote sensing data can be used to understand forest disturbances and improve forest health monitoring, especially in the context of climate change and spruce bark beetle outbreaks.
07 October 2024
SLU researchers discussed the future of plant protection in Umeå
To increase cooperation between SLU's researchers in the field of forest damage and plant protection, the SLU Plant Protection Network and the SLU Forest Damage Centre arranged a network meeting in Umeå. "It has been a great opportunity to meet people and network, the schedule included inspiring lectures, an excursion and more opportunities for mingling and discussion so there has been plenty of time to talk to each other about research," said one of the participants.
25 September 2024
New spectral features constructed from green light to early identify bark beetle-infested trees
A new groundbreaking technique using hyperspectral drone images now enables detection of the majority of trees infested by European spruce bark beetles before the new generation beetles leave the trunk. The technique is developed using hyperspectral drone imagery but aims to be applied by simpler sensors and applied for large-area monitoring.