Asian hornet training brought together 130 participants in Ponta Delgada - Communication

Secretaria Regional da Agricultura e Alimentação

The training on the Asian hornet, an invasive species that threatens beekeeping and the ecosystem, took place this week at the Regional Civil Engineering Laboratory (LREC) in Ponta Delgada.

It brought together 130 participants, including beekeepers, technicians and others interested in the subject. Organised by the Regional Directorate for Agriculture, Veterinary and Food (DRAVA), the event was attended by APIMAR and CASERMEL representatives.

The training, held in a hybrid format, with 80 participants in person and 50 online, aimed to train participants to identify, monitor and control the Asian hornet. The guest speaker, João Casaca, a specialist in the subject, addressed various aspects regarding the biology of this species, its negative impacts on beekeeping and the environment, and the management and control strategies that can be implemented.

During the training, information was presented on identifying the Asian hornet, its nests, and how to differentiate this species from other native wasps. In addition, the best monitoring practices were discussed, such as the use of baits and traps, and the different control techniques, from nest destruction to the use of natural predators.

The Director of the São Miguel Agrarian Development Service also presented the actions carried out following the detection of the first nest and the area of intervention of the beekeeping section of this service, starting with the placement of traps in the identified area as well as their permanent monitoring.

The active participation of those present demonstrates the growing interest and concern about the spread of the Asian hornet. The sharing of experiences and knowledge between participants and the speaker enhanced the training and strengthened the fight against this pest.

As the entity responsible for organising the event, the DRAVA stressed the importance of continuing training as a fundamental tool for tackling the Asian hornet.

The Regional Secretariat for Agriculture, Veterinary and Food has invested in various training and awareness-raising activities aimed at protecting beekeeping and preserving the environment.

The presence of representatives from APIMAR and CASIMAR, important organisations in the beekeeping sector, reinforces the joint efforts to combat the Asian hornet. The partnership between public entities, associations and beekeepers is essential for the success of control strategies and mitigation of the negative impacts of this invasive species.

This meeting represented an important step towards preparing beekeepers and the community in general to tackle this threat.

In disseminating knowledge and adopting appropriate monitoring and control practices, it is possible to protect beekeeping and biodiversity and ensure the sustainability of beekeeping activities.