PRESS RELEASE ​

Nations unite to combat costly insect pest

The first meeting of the European Wireworm Research Network (EWRN) was held in Oslo on the 7th July 2024. The format was an interactive workshop and was well attended by 46 delegates from 17 countries including most of the European potato producing nations, Canada and the U.S.A. The workshop started with three keynote speakers including one from Europatat which highlighted the importance of a close working relationship between the two organisations.
National presentations were given, indicating the range of species and crops damaged by this pest, in Austria 10% of the national potato crop is lost to this pest every year. Researchers showcased the approach taken in their respective countries. The group sessions allowed all the delegates to give their opinions on future direction, research topics and other important issues.
The success of the workshop, and feedback since the event has confirmed the value of the network and the organising committee is now working on the next event which will be an online meeting this autumn.

About EWRN    
The organising committee includes members from Austria, France, Norway and the UK. It was formed in response to requests for such a group following the unprecedented level of interest in this pest at the EAPR pests and pathology section meeting in Arras, France in September 2023.