The MiFoRest project partners are organizing an inspiring study trip to Tuscany, Italy, focusing on forest genetics, adaptive silviculture and Mediterranean forest species.
Organised in close collaboration with leading Italian research institutes (CREA – Research Centre for Forestry and Wood, and CNR Florence), this study visit offers a unique opportunity to exchange knowledge with forest practicioners, managers and scientists from across Europe.This trip is designed to foster dialogue between forest owners, managers, researchers and nurserymen from different biogeographical regions, and to explore how Southern European forest ecosystems and species can inform future forest management strategies under climate change.
Participants will discover how key Mediterranean species are studied and managed, and how genetic resources are conserved and mobilised. During the visits, we will explore species such as silver fir (Abies alba), sessile oak (Quercus petraea), downy oak (Quercus pubescens), and Turkey oak (Quercus cerris), among others.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS (detailed agenda will be sent a few weeks before departure)
- Arezzo (CREA Research Centre)
Insights into forest genetics, adaptive silviculture, and nursery production - Vallombrosa Experimental Forest
Field visit to historic and experimental plots (silver fir, oaks, beech) - Casentino Forest National Park (Apennines)
Exploration of natural stands and discussion of the latest research on oak and fir adaptation
The program combines scientific input with practical field observations and exchanges with local experts.
WHEN?
October 6–9, 2026
(arrival on October 6 in Arezzo; field visits on October 7–8; departure October 9)
WHERE?
Tuscany, Italy
Main locations: Arezzo, Vallombrosa, Casentino Forest National Park.
Recommended night stays in Arezzo (1st night), Poppi (2nd night) and Arezzo of Florence area (3rd night)
Planned itinerary (subject to light changes. Group travel in coach, around 3h15 travelling time spread on 2 days).
WHO?
Forest owners or managers, forest experts, researchers in forest genetics, and nurserymen.
The group size will be limited to max 40 people to ensure high-quality exchanges.
PRACTICALS AND COSTS
The MigFoRest project partners will cover:
- Technical visits and scientific content
- Local transfers between sites
- Lunches during the field days
- 1 group dinner
Each participant is expected to cover:
- Travel to/from Italy (arrival in Arezzo, probably through Florence airport)
- Hotel accommodation
- Additional meals
A list of recommended hotels will be shared after registration.The working language will be English, with interpretation to French and German if needed.
ARE YOU IN?
Confirm your participation by sending an email to comm-migforest@srfb-kbbm.be, before September 15. The earlier the better, so you can book your flights and hotels.
For questions or further information, do not hesitate to contact comm-migforest@srfb-kbbm.be.
