The Wood Wasp is an insect that attacks and reproduces in pine trees, causing serious damage to plantations and negatively impacting the region’s forestry economy. Originally from Europe and North Africa, the species arrived in Brazil in the 1980s and has since spread, threatening vast areas of planted forests.

To prevent the pest’s advance, Sindimadeira-RS and the Associação Gaúcha de Empresas Florestais (AGEFLOR) are launching a campaign to raise awareness and combat the invasive insect.

The campaign aims to inform and mobilize forest owners, technicians, and the general public about the risks associated with the Wood Wasp and the preventive measures that can be taken to contain its spread.

The goal is to significantly reduce the insect’s propagation, minimizing damage to pine forests and ensuring the economic viability of forestry activities in Rio Grande do Sul.

On September 18, Embrapa Florestas researcher Susete Chiarello Penteado will discuss this and other risks to pine forestry in Pinhais/PR during Pinus Conecta, an event that is part of the International Wood Week.

Photo: Franciso Santana