Regional Government promotes scientific risk assessment to combat Ghestnut Gall Wasp - Communication

Secretaria Regional da Agricultura e Alimentação

The Regional Government, through the Regional Secretariat for Agriculture and Food, has commissioned the Gaspar Frutuoso Foundation to conduct a risk assessment study on the possible introduction of the biological control agent Torymus sinensis in the archipelago.

The Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Food, António Ventura, emphasised that this decision is part of the regional strategy to strengthen plant health and promote sustainable solutions for pests with economic and environmental impact, such as those affecting chestnut trees.

Torymus sinensis is used internationally to control the chestnut gall wasp (Dryocosmus kuriphilus), a pest that compromises the productivity and vitality of this species.

However, given the unique ecological features of the Azores, António Ventura defended that any intervention requires rigorous and independent technical analysis before a final decision is made.

The government official maintained that the Government is committed to ensuring that the fight against this pest is carried out with the utmost rigour and respect for ecosystems.

"The risk assessment study now commissioned represents a key step in ensuring that all options are analysed in a responsible, balanced and transparent manner," stated António Ventura.

The technical and scientific analysis will assess the potential impact on native species, the associated ecological risks, the suitability of the species to the Region's soil and climate conditions, and the effectiveness of the intervention compared to other available alternatives.

Conducting this assessment is an essential preliminary step, ensuring that the Region's actions are based on the precautionary principle and solid evidence.

For António Ventura, this procedure underlines the commitment to technically informed agriculture that balances productivity with environmental safety.

“Protecting our crops and biodiversity in the Azores requires prudence, knowledge and sustainable solutions. This is what we are doing: working based on evidence, listening to the scientific community and safeguarding the public interest,” summed up the Regional Secretary.

António Ventura reiterated that all future decisions on this matter will be guided by technical, legal and scientific criteria, ensuring transparency and accountability in the management of natural resources in the Autonomous Region of the Azores.