MAPPEST Mobile Application
As part of the project, the MAPPEST mobile app will be developed to help farmers and stakeholders quickly and effectively identify invasive alien species. With the app, users will be able to record their observations of harmful species encountered in the field and enter data along with photos and location information.
The collected data will contribute to monitoring the density and spread of invasive species and facilitate data sharing among stakeholders. This will enable the early detection of harmful species and support the timely implementation of appropriate control methods.
As a practical digital tool supporting decision-making processes for farmers and relevant institutions, MAPPEST will offer the possibility of faster and more effective intervention in the fight against invasive species.
Climate & Pest Detection Stations
Climate and pest monitoring stations will be established in pilot regions designated by the project partners. Through these stations, regional climate data will be collected, and invasive species with high prevalence will be identified, thereby contributing to the development of control methods for these species. Data obtained from the stations will be integrated into the MAPPEST mobile app to support more effective monitoring of invasive species, data sharing, and early intervention processes.
IAS Study and Control Reports
As part of the project, comprehensive studies will be conducted to identify invasive alien species (IAS) currently present in the regions where project partners are located and that pose a risk of spreading in the near future. As part of these studies, national reports will be prepared by analyzing the characteristics of IAS, their potential for spread, and their impacts on agricultural products in each partner country.
Additionally, country-specific product catalogs will be created to identify agricultural products affected by invasive species and climate change. These catalogs will contribute to identifying the species posing risks to agricultural production and the affected products.
Based on the findings of the project partners, a joint analysis report will be prepared that compiles the methods developed for combating invasive species, identified best practices, and recommended control strategies. This report will serve as a guide for agricultural stakeholders in monitoring invasive species and developing effective control methods.
Training Programmes and Seminars
As part of the project, training programs and seminars will be organized for farmers, agricultural institutions, and other stakeholders. These activities aim to raise awareness and improve knowledge regarding the identification of invasive alien species, the impacts of climate change on agriculture, and sustainable agricultural practices.
In each partner country, training programs will be conducted for at least 100 farmers in pilot regions. During these trainings, farmers will be provided with information on identifying invasive species, early detection methods, the use of the MAPPEST Mobile App, and the control techniques developed. Additionally, the mechanical and biotechnical control methods developed under the project will be demonstrated to farmers in the pilot regions through hands-on training.
Furthermore, to raise awareness about climate change and the control of invasive species, two hybrid seminars will be organized in each partner country, resulting in a total of six seminars across the three countries.
International Forum
As part of the project, an international forum will be organized focusing on the effects of climate change on agricultural pests and control methods. Led by the Trabzon Commodity Exchange (TCE), this event will bring together experts, researchers, and stakeholders from various countries to promote the exchange of knowledge and experience.
The forum will address the impacts of invasive alien species on agriculture, risks associated with climate change, and the control methods developed; findings from the project and best practice examples will be shared.