Observatree is a citizen science project led by Forest Research, in collaboration with key organisations. The project aims to protect UK trees, woods and forests from existing or new pests and diseases and acts as an early warning system, the earlier these threats are spotted, the higher the chances that outbreaks can be eliminated or controlled.
A network of 200 volunteers from across the UK have been trained by government tree health experts to survey for 22 priority pests and diseases. These citizen scientists conduct surveys to monitor the spread of existing threats but also monitor for any new pest or disease introductions. Their volunteers are also called upon in outbreak situations to aid officials with surveying efforts.
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