THE DETAILED TWINNING LIGHT PROJECT FICHE
1. BASIC INFORMATION
1.1. Desiree number: 2005/17360.05.02
1.2. Twinning number: EE05-IB-TWP-AGR-07
1.3. Project Title: Identification of harmful and invasive wood pests in terms
of contribution of laboratory testing capability to plant and forest
protection
1.4. Beneficiary: Agricultural Research Centre (ARC)
1.5. Sector: Agriculture
2. OBJECTIVES
2.1. Overall Objective
Compliance of the plant health laboratory of ARC with the EU directives
regarding the detection of wood pests.
2.2. Project purpose
Improved capability to detect harmful wood pests and test destructive fungus,
insects and nematodes in order to increase pest security of plants in nurseries,
stands and forests.
3. BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION
3.1. Context in the beneficiary country and relations to the acquis
communautaire
The control of harmful organisms within the Community is an important part of
the Community plant health regime. The Community plant health regime is
established by Council Directive 2000/29/EC (which is a consolidated version of
Directive 77/93/EC). The general principles are based on provisions laid down in
the International Plant Protection Convention concluded at the United Nations
Food and Agriculture Organisation, and in the World Trade Organisation
Agreement on Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures.
In order to meet the aims of the Community, the Twinning Contract for project
EE04-IB-AG-01 “Upgrading of Functional Capability on Testing of Harmful
Organisms in Estonia” (07/2005 – 07/2007) was executed. The purpose of the
project was to improve the ability of the Estonian plant health service to detect
and identify harmful pests and diseases of plants and plant produce. There were
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also two additional procurement contracts related to this project. The first was to
provide necessary laboratory equipment and the second to construct a quarantine
greenhouse facility at the ARC, which is essential for the effective and secure
testing of quarantine plant pests and diseases. The twinning project results were
achieved by July 2007. Quarantine greenhouse will be completed by October
2007.
As twinning project EE04-IB-AG-01 focused on basic improvement of testing
capabilities of plant health service in Estonia. It was specified by the visiting UK
experts that Estonia will need more attention and training on identification of
invasive wood pests. Estonia is a very forest rich country (50% of its land – about
2.2 million hectares is covered by forest) and has an active timber processing
industry. Therefore, it is essential to guarantee a good state of forest health and to
protect stands from quarantine-listed fungal diseases and pests. The dominant tree
species are Aspen, Pine, Spruce, Black alder, Birch and Grey alder. Also, Estonia
is a transit country for cut-timber from Russia and has an obligation to ensure the
health status of wood entering the EU from Russia.
The central directive covering the EU Plant Health legislation is Council
Directive 2000/29/EC with its amendments. This directive deals with the
protective measures against the introduction of organisms harmful to plants or
plant products into the Community and against their spread within the
Community. The Directive 2000/29/EC says that quarantine testings shall be
executed at a site provided with appropriate facilities sufficient to contain
harmful organisms. Related legislation also mentions that, where necessary,
samples should be taken for analysis in a laboratory with suitable facilities and
expertise (Council Directive 98/56 EC).
The Republic of Estonia, having the status of EU member state since 01 May
2004, is a signatory of the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) and
is subject to the obligations of the International Standards for Phytosanitary
Measures (ISPMs). Commission Directive 2004/102/EC as amended by Council
Directive 2005/15/EC introduces new requirements for the import of wood
packaging material. These measures align with the FAO ISPM No 15 on
"Guidelines for regulating wood packaging material in international trade" which
was adopted in March 2002.
The Estonian Plant Protection Act (2004, last amendments 01.06.2006) gives the
definitions of plant, plant products, plant propagation material, seed, harmful
pests and diseases, etc. Also, the Act refers to the list of harmful pests and
diseases, and gives a general direction where the control measures should be
applied.
The official EU list (included in EU Directive 2000/29/EC) of harmful pests and
diseases in plants, plant products, seed and propagation material is implemented
into Estonian legislation. Estonian Plant Propagation and Variety Protection Act
(2005, last amended 11.01.2007) includes the list of harmful pests and diseases in
seed and plant propagation material (included forest seed and forest propagation
material).
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There is a number of wood-related harmful and regulated quarantine organisms,
which according to Commission decisions should be tested for. According to
literature, EPPO etc. may cause threat to Nordic/Baltic region. Consequently,
those are addressed to be sampled by PPI in co-operation with CFPS and
obviously analysed by ARC with quarantine facilities and suitable equipment:
-
Pinewood
nematode,
Bursaphelenchus
xylophilus
(nematological/
morphological and molecular testing) and closely related nematode B.
mucronatus. Obligation based on Commission Decision of 13 February 2006
requiring Member States temporarily to take additional measures against the
dissemination of Bursaphelenchus xylophilus (Steiner et Buhrer) Nickle et al.
(the pine wood nematode) as regards areas in Portugal, other than those in
which it is known not to occur (notified under document number C(2006)
345);
- Pine sawyer beetle, genus Monochamus (non-European species)
(entomological/morphological and molecular testing). Important due to being
vector for Bursaphelenchus xylophilus;
- Dryocosmus kuriphilus (entomological/morphological and molecular testing).
Obligation based on Commission Decision of 27 June 2006 on provisional
emergency measures to prevent the introduction into and the spread within the
Community of Dryocosmus kuriphilus Yasumatsu (notified under document
number C(2006) 2881);
- Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (entomological/morphological and molecular
testing). Obligation based on Commission Decision of 25 May 2007 on
emergency measures to prevent the introduction into and the spread within the
Community of Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Olivier) (notified under document
number C(2007) 2161);
- Dendrolimus sibiricus Chetvericov, 1908 (entomological/morphological and
molecular testing) and closely related D. superans (Butler, 1877). Causing
threat in Baltic/Nordic region due to increasing import and transit from
Russia;
- Ips duplicatus and Ips typhographies (entomological/morphological and
molecular testing). Findings in several neighbouring countries.
- Gibberella circinata (mycological/morphological and molecular testing).
Obligation based on Commission Decision of 18 June 2007 on provisional
emergency measures to prevent the introduction into and the spread within the
Community of Gibberella circinata Nirenberg & O’Donnell (notified under
document number C(2007) 2496)
- Mycosphaerella pini (mycological/morphological and molecular testing). The
survey is needed due to first confirmed findings in Estonia;
- Phytophtora ramorum and Phytophtora kernoviae (mycological/
morphological and molecular testing-covered in project EE04-IB-AG-01).
Obligation based on Commission Decision of 19 September 2002 on
provisional emergency phytosanitary measures to prevent the introduction into
and the spread within the Community of Phytophthora ramorum Werres, De
Cock & Man in 't Veld sp. nov. (notified under document number C(2002)
3380);
- Other potential harmful forest/wood pests and diseases, which are
mentioned/regulated either in EU Directive 2000/29/EC, Commission
Decisions: regulated non-quarantine pests on propagation material (EU
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Directive 1993/49/EEC, EU Directive 98/56/EC), forest propagation material
directive (EU Directive 1999/105/EC), EPPO Alert list or EPPO Action list.
Today, the Laboratory of Plant Health and Microbiology has limited tasks in
relation to forest/wood pests and diseases. A significant number of
Bursaphelenchus xylophilus samples are sent from PPI inspectors for analysis.
Very few entomological samples arrive for testing every year. The number of
survey samples of Phytophtora ramorum and Phytophtora kernoviae has
increased significantly due to positive P. ramorum findings in 2006 and 2007.
Since Phytophtora ramorum and Phytophtora kernoviae were important parts of
the mycology training in Twinning EE04-IB-AG-01, the laboratory does not need
any further training in this area at the moment. All the other above-mentioned
pests and diseases related to entomology, nematology and mycology and, which
turn to be relevant for the area, are expected to be involved in the projecttraining. It is very important that both sampling and testing, as well as
eradication will be dealt with during the training sessions.
3.2 Description of the Beneficiary institution
The Plant Health Department of Ministry of Agriculture (MoA) bears
responsibility for the implementation of all relevant legislation in the area of plant
health in Estonia. The Plant Health Department of Plant Production Inspectorate
(PPI, authorized institution of MoA) organises and carries out state supervision
over plant health & certification of plant nursery stock and supervision over
producing, marketing, import and export of plants and plant products including
timber and wood packaging. The Plant Protection Act of 2004 assigns the main
responsibilities in plant health to PPI but in the case of forestry, also to the Centre
for Forest Protection and Silviculture (CFPS) under the Ministry of Environment,
who is responsible for inspection of Estonian forestry. Certification scheme for
forest plants is set up by the regulation of the Minister of Environment. On
request of PPI, the Laboratory of Plant Health and Microbiology of the
Agricultural Research Centre (ARC, authorized institution of MoA) provides
diagnostic services for plant pests and diseases.
PPI is responsible for enforcement of State regulations concerning the
inspections and supervisions of plant health, certification and control of seeds and
propagation material, plant variety protection, feeding stuffs, fertilisers, plant
protection products and organic farming, quality requirements of fruits and
vegetables. Plant Health Department (PHD) is the main structural unit of PPI
relevant in sense of plant health. Forests and sawmills are under the control of
PPI.
State of PHD
The main duty of PHD is to plan and organize plant health supervision, monitor
harmful organisms (HO), make risk analyses and develop measures to prevent or
limit the spreading of HO’s. The plan is presented by PPI to be discussed with
ARC and included in the annual agreement between PPI and ARC. PHD is also
responsible for organizing field inspections, sampling and issuing certificates and
official documents needed for marketing of certified propagating material.
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PHD currently consists of an head of Department and 5 chief specialists. In
addition to main office, county inspectors take samples from forests and
sawmills. In general, also other areas are inspected by the same inspectors.
CFPS is a government office under the jurisdiction of the Estonian Ministry of
Environment. In relation to the plant health, the Service is responsible for
carrying out quality control and certification of forest plant propagation material
under the Seed and Plant Propagation Material Act, as well as reporting on
findings of forestry pests to the Plant Health Department at PPI. 6 forest
pathologists and 2 technicians compose work with plant health questions at
CFPS. An employee of the CFPS is a member of the EPPO working group on
forestry issues. There is a co-operation contract between CFPS and the PPI,
which is reviewed annually. Based on this contract, inspections of nurseries
producing forestry plant material for plant passport purposes are carried out by
the CFPS inspectors at regional and local level. Certification scheme for forest
plants is set up by the regulation of the Minister of Environment. According to
FAO report (2006), 100 nurseries are under control of the CFPS. If necessary,
CFPS also takes part of the woodlands’ surveys for the pine wood nematode. Any
appearance of the quarantine organisms must be immediately notified to PPI.
ARC has been tasked for:
- performing of laboratory analyses and field trials required for the state
surveillance;
- monitoring of agricultural environmental effects;
- monitoring of food safety and other types of monitoring requested
ARC has 5 laboratories for carrying out various laboratory tests and analyses on
plant origin products. The plant health and microbiology laboratory (PHML) –
the only structural unit of ARC linked to the Estonian Plant Health System – is
responsible for the laboratory identification of pests and plant diseases, as well as
has quarantine facilities for testing regulated harmful plant pests and diseases.
The samples taken by PPI inspectors are sent to PHML with information needed
at the laboratory, but without any further details of the source of sampling, place
of production, name of producer or company involved. When samples are
received they are allocated a code number. The results are transferred
electronically to the database of PPI. The computerised information retrieval
system is in stage of practical testing since 01 May 2003. The new database
systems will be implemented in a few years, which should improve the
information-exchange between those two organisations even more.
State of PHML
PHML has newly renovated facilities, also suitable for testing of regulated
harmful (quarantine) pests and diseases. New quarantine greenhouse will be
operating the latest in 2008. The laboratory has a quality system in place and
running from autumn 2006 and the laboratory reached its first accreditation in
spring 2007. Twinning project 2004/006-270.06.01, EE04-IB-AG-01 “Upgrading
of Functional Capability on Testing of Harmful Organisms in Estonia”, 20052007 has helped the laboratory to get its own plant health library and purchase
very modern and useful microscopes and nematode extraction equipment, which
all are highly valued and used daily by lab-specialists.
Qualified PHML staff is composed of:
- Head of the Laboratory;
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Quality Manager /molecular biologist;
Head of Plant Health Sector;
Head of Microbiology sector;
Chief specialists (8);
Specialist (3);
Technician (2).
3.3 Linked activities
-
Estonian-German-Finnish Twinning Project ES/98/IB/AG/01/3 “Development
of Estonian Phytosanitary Control Service: registration of producers, plant
passports, border control” (2000-2001). Training of staff of PHD and PHL,
inspectors training, study trip; 7 persons from PHL were trained on modern
diagnostic practising;
-
TAIEX Phytosanitary Advisory visit on Plant Health, Seeds, Varieties and
Plant Protection Products, July 2000. The conclusions of this mission were
a.o. that the relationship between the PPI and ARC should be reviewed in the
interest of achieving a balanced, reliable and integrated plant health service,
and that the PHD and Border Inspection Service should amalgate their
resources in the interest of efficiency; ARC has strengthened its strivings for
the professional trainings in EU plant health laboratories. 2 applications have
been accepted;
-
DG (SANCO) mission 8638/2002 June 2002 aimed to assess the plant health
control systems for harmful organisms and the marketing and use of plant
protection products. The mission experts concluded that the transposition of
the plant health acquis is carried out in an acceptable manner and that the basic
mechanisms to work according to the phytosanitary directives are in place;
although improvements and adaptations are still required (ring rot survey,
relationship PPI-ARC, additional training in identification of diseases); A new
strategy for the improvement of collaboration with PPI;
-
Phare project “Development of Estonian Phytosanitary Control Services”
ES9803/01/02: supply of equipment for phytosanitary controls (to PHL of
ARC), completed in 2002. Purchasing laboratory equipment;
-
FAO project TCP/EST/0165; February 2003. From this project the
conclusions were a.o. that there is a need for a nationally integrated
surveillance programme, the need to improve the national plant health
management system, a need to further develop the laboratory services and
their insertion to the plant health system, and the need to review the inspection
procedures and skills. Purchasing laboratory equipment;
-
Twinning Project with Denmark “Implementation of EU Regulations for
Indexing Nuclear Stock Potato Plants for Quarantine Pathogens in the Baltic
Countries” (2003): 11. Training of laboratory staff. 2 people have been trained
in the Danish Institute of Agricultural Sciences;
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The Netherlands-Estonian project PPA03/ES/9/1 “Strengthening the Estonian
Plant Health System in Accordance with EU Legislation, with Specific
Attention to Plant Propagation Material” (2004-2005). Harmonisation of
relevant Estonian legislation with EU legislation, improving inspection and
control systems in the field of plant health, including the harmonisation of
border inspection with EU requirements, training laboratory staff;
-
United Kingdom-Denmark-Estonia Twinning project 2004/006-270.06.01,
EE04-IB-AG-01 “Upgrading of Functional Capability on Testing of Harmful
Organisms in Estonia”, 2005-2007. Training of Laboratory staff in all
disciplines (nematology, entomology, mycology, virology, bacteriology,
molecular biology), establishing plant health library, purchasing laboratory
equipment, building quarantine greenhouse, and improving administrative
capacity of the lab, establishing long-lasting relationships with relevant
institutions in Estonia and abroad.
3.4 Proposed methodology
The mandatory results will be achieved through theoretical and practical training
sessions in Estonia and an EU MS. Training of PPI and CFPS inspectors will
involve training on sampling with its various practical and theoretical aspects.
Practical case-studies on actual sampling-sites are part of the practical training.
Suspicious samples are collected by PPI and CFPS inspectors and sent to ARC
PHML laboratory for training purposes. Lab-training at ARC will involve
theoretical and practical discipline-specific training on detection of harmful woodpests and diseases.
Discussions and work-shops will be held with the relevant beneficiaries (ARC,
PPI, CFPS) to improve their co-operation and task-division. The actual cooperation between PPI, ARC Plant Health personnel and managements procedures
before, during and after the training sessions will be evaluated by a project expert
who suggests improvements. The analysis will be done through face-to-face
interviews, discussions with staff from ARC, PPI ans CFPS, evaluation of
Estonian surveillance programmes and observations in Estonia.
Study tour to an EU Member State is considered to be a significant training
activity, which enables inspectors and lab-staff to experience and study an
implemented and functioning MS wood-inspection system, starting with
preparations for surveys, sampling and laboratory analysis with its all aspects,
both specialist and management level.
Plant health inspection system should involve effective reliable sampling as well
as reliable laboratory analysis conducted in proper conditions with qualified staff.
To be able to bring this system to a new and improved level, it is important to
involve the beneficiaries from different institutions for constructive discussions
during trainings. In order to have useful practical on-site sessions, both reference
materials, consumable and training venues, as well as financial resources for
interpretation and translation are included to the project budget.
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4 DESCRIPTION OF THE ASSIGNMENT
4.1 Mandatory results
4.1.1 The specialists from PPI and CFPS are capable to perform effective
inspections, sampling and primary field-identification of harmful and invasive
wood pests and diseases - wood inspectors, forest/wood pathologists and
management are qualified in above-mentioned areas;
4.1.2 The specialist of PHML are able to identify harmful and invasive wood pests
and diseases - nematologist, mycologist, entomologist, technicians/specialists
and management are qualified in above-mentioned areas;
4.1.3 Management procedures and operational links between ARC, PPI and CFPS
are analysed, effective and efficient links and management procedures are
established and approved by the the mentioned institutions. :
4.1.4 The ARC, PPI and CFPS staff is familiar with an implemented and
functioning MS wood-inspection system as a whole (including planning of
surveys, inspection, sampling and identification) and ready to implement the
know-how in Estonia.
4.2 Benchmarks
4.2.1 In total 10 PPI and CFPS inspectors/specialists are competent in sampling for
harmful and invasive wood pests (nematodes, insects) and diseases (fungi) :
- sampling-procedures are in place for surveys (in nematology, entomology
and mycology);
- inspectors are prepared for effective sampling in case of outbreaks.
4.2.2 In total 6 PHML employees (nematologist, mycologist, entomologist,
technicians/specialists and management) are competent to detect harmful and
invasive wood pests and fungi, which are relevant to the area.
4.2.3 The management analysis of the present situation and suggestions for
improvements are presented by the project experts and approved ARC, PPI
and CFPS -; co-operation and task-division schemes have been worked out
and steady links between ARC, PPI and CFPS both on management and
specialist-level are developed.
4.2.4 In total 10 employees from ARC, PPI and CFPS are familiar with an
implemented and functioning MS wood-inspection system; suggestions for
improving Estonian wood-inspection system have been made by the
participants.
4.3 Activities
4.3.1 Training of wood specialists from PPI and CFPS in methodology and
techniques of effective inspection, sampling and primary field identification of
harmful and invasive wood pests and pathogens: STE 8 and 9 for 15 working
days over 6 months (result 4.1.1)
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Training for 10 inspectors/specialists from PPI and CFPS consists of:
- expert-analysis of the current wood-related inspection practises and suggestions
for improvement;
- planning of inspection and surveys (theory and practise with case-studies,
including seed, propagation material, packaging material etc);
- methods and techniques for inspections (theory and practise, including seed,
propagation material, packaging material etc);
- methods and techniques for sampling (theory and practise, including seed,
propagation material, packaging material etc);
- on-site practical training of inspection and sampling, collection of samples for Lab
training;
- primary field analysis, decision-making (when should the sample be sent to Lab);
- case-studies for outbreaks.
4.3.2 Training of specialists from ARC (PHML) (nematologist, mycologist,
entomologist, technicians/specialists and management) in identification of
harmful and invasive wood pests and diseases: STE 1 - 7 for 55 working days
in total for 7 experts over 6 months (result 4.1.2)
Training for 6 PHML staff consists of:
- expert-analysis of the current wood-related nematology testing and suggestions
for improvement;
- preparation of wood-samples for nematological and relevant molecular
identification (theory and practice with samples collected during inspection
training);
- nematological and relevant molecular analysis of wood samples (theory and
practice with samples collected during inspection training (activity 4.3.1.));
-
-
-
-
expert-analysis of the current wood-related entomological testing and suggestions
for improvement;
preparation of wood-samples for entomological and relevant molecular
identification (theory and practice with samples collected during inspection
training);
entomological and relevant molecular analysis of wood samples (theory and
practice with samples collected during inspection training (activity 4.3.1.));
expert-analysis of the current wood-related mycological testing and suggestions
for improvement;
preparation of wood-samples for mycological and relevant molecular
identification (theory and practice with samples collected during inspection
training);
mycological analysis of wood samples (theory and practice with samples collected
during inspection training (activity 4.3.1.)).
expert-analysis of the current wood-related molecular testing and suggestions for
improvement;
preparation of relevant wood-samples for molecular identification (theory and
practice with samples collected during inspection training);
relevant molecular analysis of wood samples (theory and practice with samples
collected during inspection training (activity 4.3.1.)).
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4.3.3 Expert analysis of the present wood related management procedures as well as
operational links between ARC, PPI and CFPS. Expert-advice on
improvements of current administration and control system (ARC, PPI and
CFPS) through evaluation of national programmes: STE 10 for 10 working
days over 6 months (result 4.1.3)
Expert’s management and operational links’ analysis of PPI, ARC and CFPS consists
of:
- Face-to face interviews and discussions with relevant Estonian beneficiaries and
visiting experts and expert-observations (including a visit to Tartu);
- Evaluation of Estonian wood-related plant health surveillance programmes (will
be included in written report);
- improving current administration, control system and links between ARC, PPI and
CFPS (overview and suggestions will be included in written report);
- developing strategic co-operation and task-division schemes between ARC, PPI
and CFPS (will be included in written report).
4.3.4 Study visit to an EU MS in the field of inspection, sampling and laboratory
testing of harmful and invasive wood pests and diseases. Inspections of
nurseries, stands, forests; sampling of suspicious material and the following
lab-work with the collected samples (total 5 working days). (result 4.1.4):
Training for 10 employees (4 ARC + 4 PPI + 2 CFPS) consists of:
- Practical training on planning of inspection and surveys;
- Demonstration of task-division, co-operation schemes and outbreak-action;
- Practical training on inspection, sampling and primary field-identification;
- Practical training on wood-related laboratory analysis (nematology, entomology,
mycology and relevant molecular analysis).
4.4 Expert input
Maximum of 10 experts will be involved. However, the number of experts is
difficult to foresee due to the institutional build-up of the experts’ home
institution. The segregation of expert tasks and number of experts is estimated.
Tasks of experts:
MS Project Leader (total of 7 working days over 6 months)
- Overall co-ordination of the project activities and back-office support;
- Coordination of work of team members;
- Organising study tour for employees from PPI, ARC and CFPS (input to
activity 4.3.4 and results 4.1.4);
- Reporting (including Inception Report, Final Report).
Short term experts 1 and 2 (STE 1 and STE 2) on nematological testing (total of
15 working days over 6 months). The experts give input to activity 4.3.2 and
result 4.1.2):
- preparation of training including training needs analysis;
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-
expert-analysis of the current wood-related nematology testing and
suggestions for improvement;
preparation of wood-samples for nematological identification (theory and
practice with samples collected during inspection training);
nematological analysis of wood samples (theory and practice with samples
collected during inspection training).
Short term experts 3 and 4 (STE 3 and STE 4) on entomological testing (total of
15 working days over 6 months). The experts give input to activity 4.3.2 and
result 4.1.2,
- preparation of training including training needs analysis;
- expert-analysis of the current wood-related entomological testing and
suggestions for improvement;
- preparation of wood-samples for entomological identification (theory and
practice with samples collected during inspection training);
- entomological analysis of wood samples (theory and practice with samples
collected during inspection training).
Short term experts 5 and 6 (STE 5 and STE 6) on mycological testing (total of 15
working days over 6 months). The experts give input to activity 4.3.2 and result
4.1.2:
- preparation of training including training needs analysis;
- expert-analysis of the current wood-related mycological testing and
suggestions for improvement;
- preparation of wood-samples for mycological identification (theory and
practice with samples collected during inspection training);
- mycological analysis of wood samples (theory and practice with samples
collected during inspection training).
Short term expert 7 (STE 7) on molecular testing (total of 10 working days over 6
months). The expert gives input to activity 4.3.2 and result 4.1.2:
- preparation of training including training needs analysis;
- expert-analysis of the current wood-related molecular testing and suggestions
for improvement;
- preparation of relevant wood-samples for molecular identification (theory and
practice with samples collected during inspection training);
- relevant molecular analysis of wood samples (theory and practice with
samples collected during inspection training).
Short term experts 8 and 9 (STE 8 and STE 9) on wood inspection and sampling
of wood material (total of 15 working days over 6 months). The experts give
input to activity 4.3.1 and result 4.1.1:
- preparation of training;
- expert-analysis of the current wood-related inspection practises and
suggestions for improvement;
- planning of inspection and surveys (theory and practise with case-studies,
including seed, propagation material, packaging material etc);
- methods and techniques for inspections (theory and practise, including seed,
propagation material, packaging material etc);
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-
methods and techniques for sampling (theory and practise, including seed,
propagation material, packaging material etc);
on-site practical training of inspection and sampling, collection of samples for
Lab training;
primary field analysis, decision-making (when should the sample be sent to
Lab);
case-studies for outbreaks.
Short term expert 10 (STE 10) on wood-related management procedures and
operational links between institutions (total of 10 working days over 6 months).
The expert gives input to activity 4.3.3 and result 4.1.3:
- Face-to face interviews and discussions with relevant Estonian beneficiaries
and visiting experts and expert-observations (including a visit to Tartu);
- Evaluation of Estonian wood-related plant health surveillance programmes;
Preparing a written report;
- Advising on improvements of current administration, control system and links
between ARC, PPI and CFPS; Preparing a written report;
- Helping to develop strategic co-operation and task-division schemes between
ARC, PPI and CFPS; Preparing a written report.
4.5 Contribution of the Beneficiary institution
The project beneficiaries will secure:
- The availability of sufficient manpower and administrative inputs at
beneficiary level so as to ensure the successful execution of the project
implementation activities as well as the project monitoring activities;
- Adequate working space for the EU experts carrying out different activities
under the project;
- Support to the work of project experts (such as networking, organising
arrangements etc.);
- Appropriate space for workshops, training, meetings etc. organised in the
framework of this project;
- Capacity to translate relevant documentation (mainly English into Estonian for
the benefit of Estonian parties);
- Manpower for interpretation, when necessary and requested by the project
experts.
4.6 Sustainability
The project will be sustainable since Estonia as a Member State has undertaken to
adopt the EU Common Agricultural Policy without reservation. The Estonian
government will make sufficient national resources available in order to ensure
the sustainability of the project’s results. Long-term sustainability of the project
will be guaranteed by the financial and administrative capacity of the Ministry of
Agriculture who bears responsibility for the drafting and implementation of all
the relevant activities in the area of plant health. Department of Plant Health of
the Ministry of Agriculture has been set up to focus specifically on phytosanitary
fields, such as plant health.
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All formulated activities are in support of activities to be implemented by the
respective beneficiaries. The institution building nature of this project requires
that the counterpart – Ministry of Agriculture in co-operation with the respective
beneficiaries, assumes full responsibility for the implementation of the activities
supported by the project.
The written training materials produced for this project will be preserved by the
beneficiary to be later used in case of need. There will be at least 2 participants
from each administration in each training that will ensure the sustainability of the
acquired know-how.
5 EXPERTS PROFILE
5.1 Profile of experts
5.1.1
-
MS Project Leader:
University degree in relevant subject
Minimum of 5 years professional experience on management
High level of communication, managerial and co-ordination skills
Excellent English language and computer skills
Previous Phare/Twinning experience would be an advantage
5.1.2 Short term experts 1 and 2 (STE 1 and STE2) on nematological testing:
- minimum of 5 years professional experience in nematological laboratory
analysis;
- experience with wood-nematodes;
- good knowledge of English.
5.1.3 Short term experts 3 and 4 (STE 3 and STE 4) on entomological testing:
- minimum of 5 years professional experience in entomological laboratory
analysis;
- experience with wood-insects;
- good knowledge of English.
5.1.4 Short term experts 5 and 6 (STE 5 and STE 6) on mycological testing:
- minimum of 5 years professional experience in mycological laboratory
analysis;
- experience with wood-fungi;
- good knowledge of English;
5.1.5
-
Short term expert 7 (STE 7) on molecular testing:
minimum of 5 years professional experience in molecular laboratory analysis;
experience with wood-testing;
good knowledge of English.
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5.1.6 Short term experts 8 and 9 (STE 8 and STE 9) on wood inspection and
sampling of wood material:
- minimum of 5 years professional experience in wood inspections and
sampling of wood material;
- good knowledge of English.
5.1.7 Short term expert 10 (STE 10) on wood-related management procedures and
operational links between institutions
- minimum of 5 years professional experience in management and plant health
issues (preferably also with wood-issues);
- good management skills;
- good communication skills;
- good knowledge of English.
5.2 Working language
Project working language will be English. However, total of 10 000 EUR of
project money is allocated for interpretation and translation from English to
Estonian and Estonian to English during the training sessions.
6 INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK
6.1 Beneficiary
6.1.1 Direct beneficiary: Agricultural Research Centre (ARC)
6.1.2 Final beneficiaries: Agricultural Research Centre (ARC), Plant Production
Inspectorate (PPI), Centre for Forest Protection and Silviculture (CFPS):
6.1.3 The project leader and contact for the project
Dr. Margus Friedenthal
Deputy Director of Agricultural Research Centre
Teaduse 4/6, Saku 75501, Harjumaa
Phone: + 372 6729 172
Fax: + 372 6729 149
E-mail: margus.friedenthal@pmk.agri.ee
6.1.4 PO of the project
Mr. Siim Tiidemann
Acting Deputy Head of the European Union and Foreign Affairs Department
Ministry of Agriculture
Lai 39/41, Tallinn
Phone: + 372 6256 255
E-mail: siim.tiidemann@agri.ee
6.1.5 Project manager:
Mrs. Karme Petrutis
Head of PHLM
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Teaduse 4/6, Saku 75501, Harjumaa
Phone: + 372 6729 161
Fax: + 372 6729 149
E-mail: karme.petrutis@pmk.agri.ee
The CFCD of the Ministry of Finance is the implementing agency responsible for
tendering, contracting and payments (Central Financing and Contracting
Department, Ministry of Finance of Estonia, Suur-Ameerika 1, Tallinn 15006,
Estonia)
7 LOCATION AND DURATION
7.1 Foreseen start of project activities
Contract will be signed latest 15th December 2007.
Project implementation will start in March 2008.
7.2 Project duration
6 months (work plan) + 3 months
7.3 Schedule and number of days for the assignment per expert
Kick-off meeting, embracing all 1 day
relevant players
Training of ARC, PPI and CFPS In total 80 working days in Estonia by STE 1 personnel (max 20 people):
STE 10.
STE 1 and STE 2
STE1 and STE2: 15 working days
- expert-analysis of the current wood-related
nematology testing and suggestions for
improvement (1 day);
- preparation of wood-samples for
nematological identification (theory and
practice with samples collected during
inspection training) (2+2 days);
- nematological analysis of wood samples
(theory and practice with samples
collected during inspection training) (5+5
days)
STE 3 and STE 4
STE3 and STE4: 15 working days
- expert-analysis of the current wood-related
entomological testing and suggestions for
improvement (1 day);
- preparation of wood-samples for
entomological identification (theory and
practice with samples collected during
inspection training) (2+2 days);
- entomological analysis of wood samples
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(theory and practice with samples
collected during inspection training) (5+5
days).
STE 5 and STE 6
STE5 and STE6: 15 working days
- expert-analysis of the current wood-related
mycological testing and suggestions for
improvement (1 day);
- preparation of wood-samples for
mycological identification (theory and
practice with samples collected during
inspection training) (2+2 days);
- mycological analysis of wood samples
(theory and practice with samples
collected during inspection training) (5+5
days).
STE 7
STE7 : 10 working days
- expert-analysis of the current wood-related
molecular testing and suggestions for
improvement (1 day);
- preparation of relevant wood-samples for
molecular identification (theory and
practice with samples collected during
inspection training) (3 days);
- relevant molecular analysis of wood
samples (theory and practice with samples
collected during inspection training) (6
days).
STE 8 and STE 9
STE8 and STE9: 15 working days
- expert-analysis of the current wood-related
inspection practises and suggestions for
improvement (2 days)
- planning of inspection and surveys (theory
and practise with case-studies, including
seed, propagation material, packaging
material etc); (2 days)
- methods and techniques for inspections
(theory and practise, including seed,
propagation material, packaging material
etc); (2 days)
- methods and techniques for sampling
(theory and practise, including seed,
propagation material, packaging material
etc); (3 days)
- on-site practical training of inspection and
sampling, collection of samples for Lab
training; (3 days)
- a trip to Tartu (place of CFPS) for the
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project activities(1 day);
- primary field analysis decision-making
(when should the sample be sent to Lab);
- (1 day) case-studies for outbreaks. (1 day)
STE 10
STE10: 10 working days
- Face-to face interviews and discussions
with relevant Estonian beneficiaries and
visiting experts and expert-observations
(including a visit to Tartu) (3 days);
- Evaluation of Estonian wood-related plant
health surveillance programmes (included
in written report), (2 days)
- Advising on improvements of current
administration, control system and links
between ARC, PPI and CFPS (included in
written report), (3 days)
- Helping to develop strategic co-operation
and task-division schemes between ARC,
PPI and CFPS (included in written report),
(2 days).
Project management: MS Project Briefing, debriefing 2 days
Leader 7 working days
Coordination of project activities (2 days)
Participating the kick-off meeting (1 day),
Steering Committee (1 day) and final event (1
day)
Study visit for ARC, PPI and CFPS
Practical training on wood inspections,
specialists/inspectors/officials to a EU sampling and laboratory testing: 5 working
MS (10 people)
days
- Practical training on planning of
inspection and surveys (0,5 day);
- Demonstration of task-division, cooperation schemes and outbreak-action
(0,5 day);
- Practical training on inspection, sampling
and primary field-identification (2 days)
- Practical training on wood-related
laboratory analysis (nematology,
entomology, mycology and relevant
molecular analysis) (2 days).
Final meeting 1 day
1 day at the end of the training courses to
discuss the recommendations for follow-up
and conclude the project
7.4 Location of assignment
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The lab-training will be held at the premises of Laboratory of Plant Health and
Microbiology, Agricultural Research Centre, Teaduse 4/6, Saku 75501, Harjumaa,
Estonia.
The training concerning management study may also be held in ARC or, by
request in PPI (Teaduse 2, Saku 75501, Harjumaa, Estonia). Two visits are
foreseen to Tartu (place of CFPS) in connection with inspection and management
component of the project.
A study-tour to one of the Member States.
The sampling and inspection training will be held both at the PPI main office, and
premises of Plant Protection Inspectorate, Teaduse 2, Saku, 75501, Harjumaa,
Estonia. However, field training and sampling may also take place in another
place in Estonia, which would be near to the actual sampling-sites (i.e. SouthEstonia).
8 REPORTING AND MONITORING
8.1 Content, language, format and number of reports
In the beginning of the project the MS Project Leader will prepare an inception
report in co-operation with BC Project Leader, which will define the detailed plan
and schedule of the activities and relevant expected results. All other experts will
complete their mission reports, which will form a part of the final report, after each
mission.
On completion of the project, the MS Project Leader shall submit a final report that
is prepared together with BC PL, of the project, which highlights and assesses the
achieved results of the project. The final report includes in its appendix all the
relevant documentation produced during the project with conclusions and
recommendations, including lessons to be learned in the future.
Project reports are elaborated in 4 hard copies (one copy to the MS partner,
Beneficiary, CFCD, Ministry of Agriculture). Electronic version of the report is
also required. Final report is submitted together with a final invoice and audit
certificate for approval to the Programme Officer at the Ministry of Agriculture.
Both the Project Leader in the Member State and Estonian Project Leader in ARC
must sign all reports. All reports should be elaborated in English and approved by
the Steering Committee.
8.2 Date of submission of reports and approval process
Draft reports must be submitted at least two weeks before the steering committee
meeting to all the members of the steering committee. All the reports will be
approved by the steering committee and be signed and presented to the relevant
institutions as described in art 8.1.
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Inception report will be submitted during one month after the signature of the
contract. The final report will be submitted not later than three months after the
end of project’s work plan (6 months)..
Inception report will be sent to the Ministry of Agriculture and to the CFCD for
information. The final report is sent for approval. The requests for financing
(request of pre-financing and final invoice) together with supporting
documentation will be submitted to CFCD for endorsement and in parallel a copy
of the invoice will be sent to PO for approval certificate.
8.3 Monitoring
For the purpose of effective co-ordination of the project the Steering Committee
(StC) shall be formed by the MoA. StC will consist of the representatives of MoA,
ARC, PPI, CFPS, CFCD and MS partner. The responsibility for the organisation
of the Project Steering Committee meeting lies with both Project Leaders.
The Steering Committee will be instituted in order:
- to take the key strategic decisions concerning the project;
- provide advice and guidance on issues raised by the project team;
- to review all project reports and work plans;
- to oversee the implementation and to analyse the effectiveness of the project.
Steering Committee will meet at least 3 times during the project implementation
period in order to discuss and approve the reports presented by the MS and
Estonian PL and decide on the timetable of the project and achievement of project
results. The first meeting (kick-off) to discuss and approve the inception report
will take place not later than one month from the start of the project. Second
meeting will be held in the middle of the project and final meeting after
completion of the project results before the end of the project. Steering Committee
will meet more frequently if necessary.
Steering committee agenda and draft report is distributed to the participants at
least a week before the meeting electronically. The StC meetings are recorded by
the Estonian counterpart. The minutes are sent for approval to the StC members
within 2 weeks after the meeting. Signed minutes by the BC and MS PL-s and
recorder are included to the project reports.
9 BUDGET
9.1 Estimated budget
Budget item
Estonia (€)
Expert fees 250 EUR per
working day)
Project Management Costs
(1,5 x total expert fees)
Phare (€)
250 x 87 = 21 750
Total (€)
21 750
1,5 x 21 750 =32 625 32 625
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Experts per diems (181
EUR x 120 nights)
International Transportation
Costs (average return flight
to Estonia 800 EUR); 20
flights
Local Transportation Costs 1000
181x120 = 21 720
21 720
800 x 20 = 16 000
16 000
Study tour for 10 persons.
Per diems (276 EUR per
night (maximum per diem
for a MS; will be revised
according to a proponent
MS); 5 nights
Study tour flight tickets for 500 x 10 = 5000
BC participants (500 EUR x
10)
Other costs (translation,
10 000
interpretation, seminar
materials, etc.)
Training materials
8000
(chemicals, consumables
used during the trainings).
Audit certificate
Provision for the changes in
prices (max 2,5% of the
total budget)
PROJECT TOTAL
24 000
276 x 50 = 13 800
1000
13 800
5000
10 000
8000
3000
2722
3000
2722
111 617
135 617
9.2 Co-financing arrangements
The parallel co-financing resources of the budget will be used for local
transportation costs for the STE-s visiting the ARC situated in Saku, training
materials, to purchase tickets to study tours to a Member State and training
workshops in Estonia (including necessary project-related trips to various places
in Estonia, f.ex as part of the management analysis and inspection-training to
Tartu etc). In addition parallel co-financing in the amount of 8000 EUR has been
planned for chemicals and consumables to be used during the trainings in ARC
conducted by the MS experts.
The co-financing expenses will be monitored by the beneficiary and the NAO in
the Ministry of Finance. Flow and stock data on co-finance will be submitted for
steering committee meetings and twice a year to the Sector Monitoring SubCommittee.
9.3 Subcontracting arrangements
Contracting of co-financing will be the responsibility of the Beneficiary.
Subcontracting of TF funds is not foreseen.
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