Final Report of an Audit Carried out in Italy from 04 to 14 March 2014 In

Home , Marche

Ref. Ares(2014)3151613 - 25/09/2014

EUROPEAN COMMISSION HEALTH AND CONSUMERS DIRECTORATE-GENERAL

Directorate F - Food and Veterinary Office

DG(SANCO) 2014-7192 - MR FINAL

FINAL REPORT OF AN AUDIT

CARRIED OUT IN

ITALY

FROM 04 TO 14 MARCH 2014

IN ORDER TO EVALUATE THE SITUATION AND CONTROLS FOR LONGHORN BEETLES (CERAMBYCIDAE) Executive Summary

This report describes the outcome of an audit carried out by the Food and Veterinary Office (FVO) in Italy, from 4 to 14 March 2014. The objectives of the audit were to evaluate the situation for the longhorn beetles (Anoplophora chinensis, Anoplophora glabripennis and Aromia bungii) and the measures taken to eradicate or inhibit their spread.

The FVO team found that in Lombardy, where Anoplophora chinensis has been present for years, the control measures implemented have resulted in the stabilisation of the situation, although the eradication is not feasible. Control measures aimed at the eradication of Anoplophora glabripennis have also been implemented. The situation with regards to A. glabripennis in Veneto has improved. Emergency measures were taken immediately following the finding of A. glabripennis in 2013 in Marche. The delimitation of the outbreak area is still in progress. Some shortcomings identified by the FVO team will, if not addressed, delay eradication. The list of host plants for A. glabripennis which is not harmonised across regions may compromise the control activities. In Campania, the outbreak area of Aromia bungii has been demarcated in a very precautionary manner. Control measures were put in place immediately, and these will substantially limit the natural spread of the pest, but are unlikely to result in its eradication. There is also a limited risk that the pest could spread outside the area with wood / fire wood, which is not regulated. In all four regions visited, there are effective awareness raising campaigns in place targeting different stakeholders. Recommendations are made in this report to address the shortcomings found.

I Table of Contents

ABBREVIATIONS AND DEFINITIONS USED IN THIS REPORT ...... 3 1 INTRODUCTION ...... 1 2 OBJECTIVES ...... 1 3 LEGAL BASIS ...... 1 3.1 RELEVENT EU LEGISLATION ...... 2 3.2 INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS ...... 2 4 BACKGROUND ...... 2 4.1 PREVIOUS RELEVANT AUDITS ...... 2 4.2 THE PESTS ...... 2 4.3 SITUATION IN ITALY ...... 3 5 FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS ...... 3 5.1 NATIONAL LEGISLATION ...... 3 5.2 ORGANISATION OF CONTROLS ...... 5 5.3 ANOPLOPHORA CHINENSIS ...... 6 5.3.1 NATIONAL SURVEYS AND NOTIFICATION ...... 6 5.3.2 OUTBREAKS AND CONTROL MEASURES ...... 7 5.4 ANOPLOPHORA GLABRIPENNIS ...... 10 5.4.1 OUTBREAKS AND NOTIFICATION ...... 10 5.4.2 ESTABLISHMENT OF A DEMARCATED AREA ...... 11 5.4.3 SPECIFIC SURVEYS AND INFORMATION CAMPAIGNS ...... 11 5.4.4 CONTROL MEASURES ...... 14 5.4.5 CONTROL OF THE MOVEMENT OF SUSCEPTIBLE MATERIAL ...... 16 5.5 AROMIA BUNGII ...... 17 5.5.1 OUTBREAKS AND NOTIFICATION ...... 18 5.5.2 ESTABLISHMENT OF DEMARCATED AREA ...... 18 5.5.3 SPECIFIC SURVEYS AND INFORMATION CAMPAIGNS ...... 19 5.5.4 CONTROL MEASURES ...... 20 5.5.5 CONTROL OF THE MOVEMENT OF SUSCEPTIBLE MATERIAL ...... 21 5.6 RESEARCH ...... 22 6 OVERALL CONCLUSIONS ...... 22 7 CLOSING MEETING ...... 23 8 RECOMMENDATIONS ...... 23 ANNEX 1 - LEGAL REFERENCES ...... 25 ANNEX 2 - STANDARDS QUOTED IN THE REPORT ...... 26

II ABBREVIATIONS AND DEFINITIONS USED IN THIS REPORT

Abbreviation Explanation A. chinensis Citrus longhorn beetle (Anoplophora chinensis (Forster)) A. glabripennis Asian longhorn beetle (Anoplophora glabripennis (Motschulsky)) A. bungii Red neck longhorn beetle (Aromia bungii (Faldermann)) ASSAM Marche Regional Agency for Agriculture and Food (Agenzia Servizzi Settore Agroalimentare delle Marche) CPHS Central Plant Health Service EC European Community EU European Union EPPO European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organisation FVO European Commisson's Food and Veterinary Office GIS Geographic Information System GPS Global Positioning System ISPM International Standard for Phytosanitary Measures IPPC International Plant Protection Convention MIPAAF Ministry of Agriculture, Foodstuffs and Forest Policies PRA Pest Risk Analysis RPS Regional Plant Health Service

III 1 INTRODUCTION

The audit took place in Italy from 4 to 14 March 2014 and was undertaken as part of the Food and Veterinary Office's (FVO) planned audit programme.

The FVO team consisted of two auditors from the FVO and two national experts from European Union (EU) Member States, one present for the first week and one for the second week. Representatives from the Single Authority, the Central Plant Health Service (CPHS) of the Ministry of Agriculture, Foodstuffs and Forest Policies (MIPAAF), accompanied the FVO team during the first week of the audit.

An opening meeting was held on 4 March 2014 in Milan, during which, the objectives and itinerary for the audit were confirmed, and additional information necessary for the conduct of the audit, was requested. The closing meeting was held at the headquarters of the CPHS in Rome on 14 March 2014.

Unless specified otherwise, the data quoted in the following sections and elsewhere in the report, was provided by the Single Authority (see section 5.1.1 below).

2 OBJECTIVES

The objectives of the audit were to evaluate the situation of Anoplophora chinensis, Anoplophora glabripennis and Aromia bungii (hereafter longhorn beetles) and the measures taken to eradicate or inhibit their spread.

The following table provides details of the meetings held and sites visited in order to achieve these objectives:

Meetings/visits No. Comments Competent Central 1 Single Authority – the CPHS Ministry of Agriculture, Authorities Foodstuffs and Forestry Policies (MIPAAF), Rome Regional 4 Regional plant health services (RPS) of Campania, Lombardy, Marche and Veneto Outbreak site A. chinensis 1 Lombardy Outbreak sites A. glabripennis 2 Marche and Veneto Outbreak site Aromia bungii 1 Campania Nurseries / garden centres 5 Campania (1), Lombardy (2), Marche (1) and Veneto (1) Collection centre for infested 3 Marche, Lombardy and Veneto wood Wood processing and firewood 1 Veneto merchants

3 LEGAL BASIS

The audit was carried out under the general provisions of EU legislation, in particular Articles 21

1 and 27a of Council Directive 2000/29/EC.

3.1 RELEVENT EU LEGISLATION

Council Directive 2000/29/EC provides for protective measures against the introduction into and spread within the EU of organisms harmful to plants or plant products.

Commission Implementing Decision 2012/138/EU established emergency measures to prevent the introduction into and the spread within the community of Anoplophora chinensis.

The legal references for the Directive and other relevant EU legislation is listed in Annex 1.

References to EU legislation are to the latest amended version, where applicable.

3.2 INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS

International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures (ISPMs) are issued by the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC). The European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organisation (EPPO) makes recommendations to the National Plant Protection Organisations of its member countries. These recommendations are EPPO Regional Standards in the sense of the revised IPPC. Standards of both organisations are recognised international benchmarks for phytosanitary controls against which to evaluate performance and measures taken, by signatories of the IPPC. Those of particular relevance to this audit are listed in Annex 2.

4 BACKGROUND

4.1 PREVIOUS RELEVANT AUDITS

This was the fourth audit carried out by the FVO in Italy, on the subject of longhorn beetles. The three previous audits were carried out in 2006 (ref DG(SANCO)/2006-8272), 2009 (ref DG(SANCO)/2009-8179) and 2010 (ref DG(SANCO)/2010-8601). The corresponding FVO reports are available on the FVO website http://ec.europa.eu/food/fvo/ir_search_en.cfm.

4.2 THE PESTS

Anoplophora chinensis, commonly called the Citrus longhorn beetle, and Anoplophora glabripennis, commonly called the Asian longhorn beetle, are both quarantine pests and are listed in Annex I, Part A, section I of Directive 2000/29/EC i.e. Not known to occur in any part of the EU and relevant for the entire EU.

Based on a high number of interceptions of A. chinensis and the results of a Pest Risk Analysis (PRA), the Commission introduced emergency measures by Decision 2008/840/EC which was replaced by Commission Implementing Decision 2012/138/EU, which imposed measures on movement of host plants and control measures against the pest.

A. chinensis and A. glabripennis share several characteristics. Both are polyphagus longhorn beetles of the insect family Cerambycidae, attack trees and shrubs belonging to various plant families, but have a clear affinity to maple trees (Acer). Females lay single eggs underneath the bark of the tree and one female can lay more than a hundred eggs. Their life cycle depends on climatic conditions and may range between one year in warmer climates to three years or more in cooler climates. The

2 life cycle of A. chinensis in Lombardy is generally two years, but can be as little as one year. The life cycle of. A. glabripennis in Veneto is between one and two years depending upon when the eggs are laid during the summer.

Larvae of A. chinensis are found in the roots and lower parts of the trunk while larvae of A. glabripennis occur mostly in the upper part of the trunk and branches of the tree.

In 2013 EPPO issued two Standards describing official controls procedures for A. chinensis and A. glabripennis. These describe the procedures for official control, with the aim of containing and eradicating the pests.

Aromia bungii, commonly called the Red neck longhorn beetle, is an oligophagous species (feeding on a restricted range of plants) and is considered in China to be a common pest of peach, apricot and other species of Prunus. The fact that it may also attack other important trees that are cultivated for fruit (e.g. olive and pomegranate) or wood production (e.g. Populus alba) adds to the risk posed by this beetle to the EU. It is reported to have a life cycle of two years. Females lay eggs in bark crevices on the trunk and main branches of host trees at the beginning of July. The larvae infest the sub cortical area beneath the bark and the sapwood, or less commonly, the heartwood. A. bungii was added to the EPPO Alert list in 2012 as the pest presented a risk in the region and a full PRA is currently being finalised by EPPO.

Further information on these pests is available on the web-site of the EPPO: https://www.eppo.int/

4.3 SITUATION IN ITALY

There are five regions in Italy with outbreaks of longhorn beetles. A. chinensis was found in the Provinces of Milan and Varese in 2000, in the Province of Brescia in 2007 (all Lombardy) and in Rome (Lazio) in 2008. An outbreak of A. glabripennis was confirmed in 2007 in Milan Province, further outbreak in the Province of Treviso (Veneto) was notified in 2009 and the latest outbreak was notified in August 2013 in the Province of Fermo (Marche). An outbreak of Aromia bungii between Naples and Pozzuoli (Campania), was notified in 2012.

5 FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS

5.1 NATIONAL LEGISLATION

Legal requirements

A. chinensis and A. glabripennis are listed in Annex I, Part A, Section I, of Directive 2000/29/EC, and their introduction into, and spread within the EU is prohibited. Article 16(1) of the same Directive requires the immediate notification of their presence and that all necessary measures to eradicate, or if that is impossible, to inhibit the spread of the pest, must be taken.

Commission Implementing Decision 2012/138/EU provides emergency measures to prevent the introduction into and the spread within the community of Anoplophora chinensis. These measures concern import controls, movements within the EU, surveys to be carried out by the Member States and demarcated areas to be defined.

A. glabripennis and A. bungii are not subject to EU specific emergency measures.

3 A. bungii is not currently regulated, and as such falls under Article 16(2) of Council Directive 2000/29/EC which states that a Member State shall immediately notify in writing the Commission and the other Member States of the actual appearance in its territory of any harmful organisms not listed in Annexes to the Directive whose presence was previously unknown in its territory. It shall inform the Commission and the other Member States of the protective measures taken or intended to be taken. These measures must, inter alia, be such as to prevent the risk of spread of the harmful organism concerned in the territory of the other Member States.

Article 12(2) of the same Directive lays down that inspectors shall have access to the plants, plant products or other objects at all stages in the production and marketing chain. They shall be entitled to make any investigation necessary of the official checks concerned, including those related to plant passports and the records.

Findings

National legislation for the control of A. chinensis is the Ministerial Decree of 12 October 2012, which is a transposition of the Decision 2012/138/EU. The decree sets the national rules for the movement of plants, surveillance, control measures and establishes the respinsibilities of regional services for their implementation. The previous Ministerial Decree of 9 November 2007 was repealed.

The Single Authority stated that a working group was established to prepare a national regulation for emergency measures for A. glabripennis, however drafting was postponed pending the development and adoption of emergency measures at EU level. Another working group was established to prepare a national regulation for A. bungii, which was still under preparation at the time of this audit.

In regional decrees control measures, obligations for the owners and concrete rules for demarcation of the outbreaks are defined. Responsible regional services are listed, financial resources identified and awareness raising campaigns are set as well.

In Lombardy, the regional legislation has been updated since the previous audit, and Decree No. 4650 of 3 June 2013 lays down current control measures for A. chinensis and responsible regional services for their implementation. Control measures against A. glabripennis are laid down in Decree No. 8033 of 3 August 2009.

In Veneto, there have been some updates, both to the demarcated area and control measures against A. glabripennis, since the previous FVO audit. The action plan for eradication of the outbreak of A. glabripennis was adopted in 2012 (see section 5.4.4 below).

In Marche, the current Regional Phytosanitary Service Decree No. 105 of 5 March 2014 lays down control measures for A. glabripennis and repeals the previous Decree No 886 of 21 November 2013. The action plan to control and eradicate the pest was also adopted by Marche Region governmental Regulation No. 1730 of 27 December 2013.

In Campania, the initial control measures for A. bungii were adopted by Regional Decree No. 426/2012 of 12 November 2012. This decree has been updated since and integrated into the current Regional Decree No. 330 of 5 February 2014. The current decree also includes an action plan for eradication of the pest.

4 Conclusions

The Ministerial Decree of 2012 transposed the requirements of EU legislation and the regions with outbreaks of longhorn beetles have adopted legislative or administrative measures to control the pests.

5.2 ORGANISATION OF CONTROLS

Legal requirements

Article 1(4) of Council Directive 2000/29/EC provides that Members States shall ensure a close, rapid, immediate and effective cooperation between themselves and the Commission in relation to matters covered by this Directive and that, to this end, each Member State shall establish or designate a Single Authority, which shall be responsible, at least, for the coordination and contact in relation to such matters.

Article 2(1)(g) of Council Directive 2000/29/EC requires that the responsible official bodies in a Member State shall either be the official plant protection organisation setup under the IPPC, or any other State authority established at national level or at regional level, under the supervision of the national authorities. Article 2(1)(i) of the same Directive requires Member States to ensure that their public servants and qualified agents have the qualifications necessary for the proper application of the Directive.

Findings

Organisation The Single Authority, within the meaning of Article 1(4) of Directive 2000/29/EC is the CPHS of the MIPAAF. The responsible official bodies in charge of the implementation of the plant health legislation and controls in each region are the Regional Plant Health Services (RPS). Coordination across regions and with the CPHS is facilitated by regular monthly meetings of the National Plant Health Committee. The organisation of official plant health controls has not changed in Lombardy and Veneto region since the previous audit of March 2010. In Marche, the RPS is a part of a regional agency (Servizio Fitosanitario Regionale - Agenzia Servizzi Settore Agroalimentare delle Marche – ASSAM). All together, there are seven inspectors and six technicians organised in four provincial offices. In Campania, the RPS is the Servizio Fitosanitario Regione Campania organised in a central team with nine staff which coordinate the activities and five provincial offices with 33 inspectors and 11 technical support staff. Further information on the structure and organisation of the plant health regime is provided in the country profile for Italy: http://ec.europa.eu/food/fvo/controlsystems_en.cfm?co_id=IT. Training In Lombardy the RPS organises a meeting for surveillance staff each year on regulatory developments and the methods of monitoring. As stated by the RPS in the Veneto region, phytosanitary inspectors are trained about A.

5 glabripennis detection by scientific experts from the Univeristy of Padova. In the Marche region no specific training for A. glabripennis has been provided, but inspectors stated that they have gained experience from the other regions with the same pest outbreaks (Veneto and Lombardy) and received information from the Single Authority. Staff involved in surveillance in the Campania region stated that they have taken part in various courses, meetings and seminars dedicated to A. bungii. The FVO team visited outbreak sites in all four regions and noted that the surveillance staff and the inspectors met were experienced and aware of the biology of the pests and the signs of infestation. The representatives of the RPSs met by the FVO team stated that although inspectors have the legal powers to enter private premises for plant health inspections, they always ask permission from the owners. An explanation to the owners and contacts at local level about the required inspections has proven to be successful. There were very few cases where other enforcement measures were needed, such as escort by local police or decree from the court. Conclusions

There is a clear division of responsibilities and good communication between authorities involved in the survey and control measures for longhorn beetles.

Although not all staff involved in the surveys have received specific training, the level of knowledge about the pests, including signs of infestation, is good.

5.3 ANOPLOPHORA CHINENSIS

5.3.1 National surveys and notification

A. chinensis presence was confirmed in the Provinces of Milan and Varese in 2000, in the Province of Brescia in 2007 (all in Lombardy Region) and in Rome (Lazio) in 2008.

Legal requirements

Article 5 of Commission Implementing Decision 2012/138/EU provides that the Member States shall conduct official annual surveys for the presence of A. chinensis and for evidence of infestation by that organism on host plants in their territory. The same Article requires that Member States notify the results of those surveys to the Commission and to the other Member States by 30 April each year.

Findings

The implementation of the national survey for A. chinensis has not changed since the audit of March 2010. All regions visited by the audit team carry out surveillance for the presence of the pest in their territory.

Italy notified the results of the national survey for 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012 without delay. All survey reports included the list and delimitation of demarcated areas.

Conclusions

6 A national survey for the presence of A. chinensis is carried out and survey reports are notified as required by Decision 2012/138/EU.

5.3.2 Outbreaks and control measures

Legal requirements

Article 6 of Decision 2012/138/EU provides that when there is confirmation or evidence of the presence of the organism, Member States shall define a demarcated area in accordance with Section 1 of Annex II to the same Decision and shall take measures as laid down in Section 3 of Annex II. Point 1(h) of Section 3 of Annex II of the same Decision provides for the need to carry out intensive monitoring, with specific focus on the buffer zone, including where appropriate targeted destructive sampling.

5.3.2.1 Outbreaks and establishment of demarcated areas

No changes have occurred since the last FVO audit of March 2010. There are three demarcated areas in the province of Milan, one demarcated area in the province of Varese and two in the province of Brescia. The Lombardy region has established demarcated areas for the outbreaks of A. chinensis in accordance with Section 1 of Annex II of Decision 2012/138/EU.

5.3.2.2 Specific surveys and information campaigns in demarcated area

Findings

Specific surveys The methodology of carrying out surveys in the demarcated area in the Lombardy region has not changed since the last FVO audit. The survey has been extended to include checks of host plants in private areas (around 40 % of survey in the buffer zone) in the entire area of the buffer zone. Surveys are carried out on the plants specified in Decision 2012/138/EU. Inspected plants are mapped using Global Positioning System (GPS) equipment and survey data is transmitted monthly to the Directorate General of Agriculture in Lombardy.

During the 2013 survey, 2 271 trees were found infested (3 654 in 2011 and 2 065 in 2012 respectively), with the lowest number of infested trees in the provinces of Milan and Varese. The RPS stated that reporting on the number of infested trees in the Gussago outbreak in the Brescia province increased in 2013 as a result of an internal audit of the monitoring team and improved efficiency of their work.

The size of the demarcated area has stabilised around to 41 000 ha within 34 municipalities. A. chinensis was eradicated in two municipalities in 2012 and 2013, but two new municipalities were demarcated in 2013.

Information campaigns The Lombardy region continues its implementation of an extensive public awareness raising campaign through various media communication directed at different stakeholders. To facilitate and focus the campaign the 'Tarlo Asiatico' (Asian beetle) term is used for both pests A. chinensis and A. glabripennis and the municipalities concerned play an active part in the campaign. Early detection of the pest is the main goal to be achieved. One successful outcome of the communication campaign was the reporting of A. bungii by a citizen to authorities in Lombardy.

7 The FVO team met the mayor of the municipality in the infested area and he stated that they were satisfied with the cooperation with the RPS, and he supported the continuous awareness raising campaign and feedback received from the citizens, which is transferred to the regional level.

Conclusions

Lombardy has a well organised surveillance programme in place for A. chinensis which was strengthened by expanding monitoring to private places in entire buffer zone. A very good and effective information campaign is in place targeting different stakeholders.

5.3.2.3 Control measures

Findings

In the Lombardy region, containment measures are applied against A. chinensis in accordance with point 2 of Section 3 of Annex II to Decision 2012/138/EU. The RPS stated, that though the control strategy is containment, they try to eradicate the pest if it is feasible and preventive felling is also carried out systematically in the infested area as was the case in the outbreaks in the Brescia province. The felling of infested trees is carried out during the non-flying period. The RPS also stated that the current felling plan is being implemented and is almost complete, and that all trees identified as infested will be felled and destroyed by the end of April 2014. The RPS stated that there is enough capacity to safely destroy infested trees as planned. The FVO team visited one outbreak site, met the survey team and observed the felling of infested trees and noted: • The team followed the survey methodology, as explained by official authorities. • Trees are felled, cut and transported to wood collection centres by the RPS workers. • Surface roots and stumps are ground into fine chips some 40 cm deep. There are five dedicated collection centres operating during the felling period in the demarcated area of the Lombardy region. The FVO team also visited a disposal centre where infested wood is temporarily stored and destroyed by chipping. Chipped wood is sold as either biomass for heating or composted. The FVO team noted: • The collection centre is fenced and unauthorised access is forbidden. • Infested wood is chipped to such a size that larvae do not survive. The RPS stated and the mayor from the infested area confirmed, that an important control measure is replanting removed trees with non-host plants, paid for by the Lombardy region.

Conclusions

All trees identified as infested as well as, in certain cases, asymptomatic trees, are felled and safely destroyed to prevent the spread of the pest. Eradication of the pest is feasible in some outbreak sites but not in the entire Lombardy region.

8 5.3.2.4 Control of the movement of host plants intended for planting

Findings

The RPS stated that since 2012, producers of outdoor ornamental plants in the demarcated area are required to obtain a new authorisation from them. To obtain authorisation, requirements for specified plants as referred to Decision 2012/138/EU must be fulfilled, which are confirmed by an on-site inspection prior to the granting of an authorisation. All nurseries in the demarcated area are authorised to issue plant passports for A. chinensis specified plants, and are regularly inspected for the presence of A. chinensis and compliance with the conditions of Decision 2012/138/EU is checked.

The RPS carries out a 1 km zone inspection around the nurseries within the framework of survey programme for A. chinensis in the demarcated area. All A. chinensis specified plants are checked. The RPS stated that all places inspected in 2013 around nurseries were found free from infestation or symptoms of infestation.

The FVO team visited a bonsai nursery and a small ornamental plant nursery in the infested zone in the Milan Province where infestation occurred in 2013.

The bonsai nursery production of A. chinensis host plants is under total physical protection and in addition regular treatments with insecticides take place between June and September. The bonsai nursery representative stated that they are regularly inspected (three to four times per year), for A. chinensis and always after receiving a consignment of imported plants. RPS stated that destructive sampling in nurseries is carried out only in the case of suspicion, which is very rare.

The RPS stated that one nursery in the demarcated area was found infested in 2013. The RPS inspectors met, stated that they had found four infested plants in the ornamental plant nursery visited in October 2013. They suspended the authorisation for the plant passport and blocked the movement of plants. The RPS was preparing an order to destroy all host plants in the nursery by chipping by the end of March 2014.

The FVO team noted that:

• Following the examination of the physical protection for host plants in the nursery and checking documents it was confirmed that the bonsai nursery was well managed from a plant health point of view.

• Plant health controls for import of bonsai plants are carried out at the point of entry in accordance with the requirements set out in Section 1 of Annex I of Decision 2012/138/EU, as confirmed by a documentary check on the last imported consignment.

• A documentary check in the nurseries visited confirmed inspections and regular insecticide treatment.

• A. chinensis freedom around nurseries was verified by checking the Geographic Information System (GIS) map provided by the RPS.

The collection of green waste and waste wood is organised free of charge in the demarcated area. The RPS stated that the volume of waste wood from host plants has significantly decreased due to

9 felling and replanting with non-host plants. The RPS stated that there are no fire wood merchants in the demarcated area and only chipped wood can be moved outside the demarcated area.

Conclusions

Authorities in the Lombardy region have taken appropriate measures to avoid risk of spreading the pest with host plants intended for planting and with wood. However, preventive treatment with insecticides and survey around the nursery have not prevented infestation. The concept of appropriate preventive treatments and official surveys around the site of production as required in the Annex I fo Directive 2012/138/EU is not fully effective against infestation.

5.4 ANOPLOPHORA GLABRIPENNIS

A. glabripennis is present in the Milan Province (Lombardy) in the Province of Treviso (Veneto) and very recently in the Province of Fermo (Marche).

Legal requirements

Anoplophora glabripennis is listed in Annex I, Part A, Section I, to Directive 2000/29/EC, and its introduction into and spread within the EU is prohibited. Article 16(1) of the same Directive requires the immediate notification of its presence and that all necessary measures to eradicate, or if that is not impossible, to inhibit the spread of the pest, must be taken. The Commission and the other Member States shall be informed of the measures taken.

5.4.1 Outbreaks and notification

Legal requirements

Article 16(1) of Directive 2000/29/EC requires the immediate notification of its presence and that all necessary measures to eradicate, or if that is impossible, to inhibit the spread of the pest, must be taken.

Findings

Lombardy

A new outbreak in 2010 was notified to the Commission and the other Member states two and a half months after the finding. The 2013 finding was not notified immediately either, but few months later in an update of the outbreak of A. glabripennis in Milan province sent to the Commission and the other Member States on 10 January 2014. This is not in line with Article 16(1) of Directive 2000/29/EC.

Veneto

In August 2010 another outbreak of A. glabripennis was detected in the south west of Cornuda in the municipality of Maser. There was a three months delay notifying the outbreak to the Commission and the other Member States, which is not in line with Article 16(1) of Directive 2000/29/EC.

10 Marche

The outbreak in the municipality of Grotazzolina was discovered on 9 August 2013 and was notified to the Commission and the other Member States immediately.

Conclusions

A recent outbreak of A. glabripennis in Marche was notified immediately as required by Directive 2000/29/EC, however, this was not the case for the recent outbreaks in Lombardy and Veneto which were notified with delay.

5.4.2 Establishment of a demarcated area

Findings

Lombardy

Lombardy adopted regional decree No. 5570 of 27 May 2010 concerning the extension of the demarcation area after the finding of an additional outbreak in 2010. Following an isolated outbreak with three Acer plants in the municipality of Sedriano in 2013, the demarcated area with a 1 km buffer zone was established. Both outbreaks were located close to each other and within the demarcated area for A. chinensis.

Veneto

In Veneto there have been some updates to the demarcated area since the last FVO audit. The main update was the establishment of the demarcated area in Maser following an outbreak in 2010 and the merging of both demarcated areas in 2012. The latest update of the demarcated area was approved by regional decree No. 5 of 28 January 2014.

Marche

The initial demarcation was established on 20 August 2013 by ASSAM Decree No. 601 following an outbreak in August 2013. There have been two updates since then and the current demarcation was established by ASSAM decree No. 105 of 5 March 2014. The demarcated area has a size of around 6 000 ha and is composed of the infested area and due to the uncertainty a 2 km radius around the infested trees as the buffer zone. At the time of the audit, the delimiting survey was still on-going and the current demarcation is provisional.

Conclusions

Lombardy and Veneto regions defined demarcated areas for all A. glabripennis outbreaks and update them regularly. In Marche, the demarcation has been defined and due to the recent outbreak not finalised yet.

5.4.3 Specific surveys and information campaigns

Findings

Specific surveys

11 Lombardy

Monitoring is performed by the same survey teams as for A. chinensis, but for the taller parts of the plants tree climbers, elevators and binoculars for observations are used. In 2013, 50 traps were used to test new kairomone compounds developed for A. glabripennis.

The list of host plants set by the regional authorities consist of the following genera which have been found infested in Lombardy: Acer, Ulmus, Betula, Salix and Populus. The RPS stated that Aesculus is not considered as a host plant as no infestation has been detected.

Veneto

Mapping using GPS of all susceptible trees in the demarcated area has been carried out. Monitoring in both the urban and countryside part of the demarcated area is performed twice per year. All the susceptible trees located in both public and private areas are checked during the winter. Another check is carried out in the summer, but not all the susceptible trees may be examined. The RPS stated that tree climbers are used to inspect tall trees and that they are a standard part of the monitoring teams. Trials have taken place with sniffer dogs. Host plants as set by the RPS belong to the following genera: Acer, Ulmus, Betula, Salix, Aesculus, Prunus, Populus and Cercidiphylum, which have been found infested in Veneto. Monitoring also includes other potential hosts from deciduous trees belonging to genera including Fagus, Carpinus, Platanus and Ostrya. At the time of the audit, 14 infested trees had been found but monitoring activities had not yet been finished.

Monitoring in the forest and by the Piave river area is performed once during the winter time. Some 30 m along path or country roads in the forest, strips by the river bank and clusters of trees are monitored. Tree climbers are used as well.

The RPS stated that spot checks are also carried out outside of the demarcated area. All monitoring data is recorded in a dedicated database and a GIS map is prepared.

Marche

At the time of the audit the delimiting survey was still on-going and the RPS stated that they had monitored around 50 % of the demarcated area. Inspections are done from the ground using binoculars and the RPS stated that symptoms can easily be seen because there are not so many big trees. The effectiveness of visual examination from the ground for large trees cannot be considered as adequate, in particular oviposition pits in the upper part of the trunk and on branches of large trees are difficult to detect from the ground. As recommended by the EPPO standard PM 9/15 (1), the best way to perform inspections on large trees is to use tree climbers.

The RPS divide monitoring sites into three categories: single plants, rows and a group of plants. Monitoring is focused on the actual perimeter of the infested area, to avoid the spread of the pest. Some spot checks were carried out also outside of the demarcated area. The use of tree climbers is foreseen in the action plan if necessary, however, they were not used at the time of the audit. Inspectors input monitoring data into the system on the spot using 3G connectivity tablets and GIS maps are produced. Since the beginning of 2014, the identification and mapping of all susceptible trees has started.

In 2013, 80 sites (single trees, rows or a group of plants) were checked and 79 of them found to be infested. Sites were targeted, on the basis of information from municipal services and citizens. In

12 January and February 2014, 354 sites in the demarcated area were checked and 171 of them found to be infested. Infested trees were mapped, marked with a colour and labelled with a tag bearing the identification data of the site. The map with infested plants is communicated to the owners by the RPS and with the cooperation of the municipalities.

Infested plants belong to six genera of Ulmus, Acer, Aesculus, Salix, Populus and Betula, which are recognised by the RPS as host plants. The RPS stated that the list of host plants was agreed in cooperation with the Single Authority. The heaviest pest attacks are observed on Ulmus campestris and Acer. Monitoring includes also other potential hosts from deciduous trees belonging to genera of Tilia, Platanus, Morus, Malus and Celtis.

The list of host plants is different in every region and consists of plant genera where infestation or signs of infestations were actually observed. The precautionary principle is not taken into consideration when preparing the list of host plants. Aesculus has not being listed as a host plant in Lombardy although it is a known as host in nearby Veneto region and in the Marche region. In preventive felling only the asymptomatic trees from the list of host plants are felled. The list is restricted, not nationally standardised and not harmonised with the EPPO standard PM 9/15 (1). Restricted lists of host plants pose a risk to overlook infestation in potential host plants, allow the spread of the pest and consequently delay eradication. This is not in line with Article 16(1) of Directive 2000/29/EC which requires that all necessary measures shall be taken to eradicate or, if that is impossible, inhibit the spread of the pest.

Information campaigns

Lombardy

An intensive information awareness raising campaign was carried out in the framework of 'Tarlo Asiatico' (Asian beetle) campaign (see 5.3.2.2).

Veneto

The RPS stated that the information campaign has been organised in cooperation with municipalities and included seminars open to the public, workshops, direct mailing campaigns, leaflet distribution, press campaigns and newsletters in the municipal journals. Informative material was sent to all municipalities in the Veneto region and information was also made available on the regional website dedicated to A. glabripennis.

Marche

The RPS stated that the citizens and stakeholders were informed about the pest outbreak, the susceptible hosts, the symptoms of attack and pest spreading risk. Municipalities involved and province technicians took part in specific meetings. A poster and leaflets were provided to local authorities and information about A. glabripennis control measures and an interactive web map of the demarcated area are available on line on the ASSAM website.

The FVO team observed a demonstration of GIS databases and saw maps of the outbreak sites and survey results in all three regions visited.

13 Conclusions

The survey for A. glabripennis in all three regions is well organised and carried out using GIS tools. However, the effectiveness of survey in Marche is considered as not fully adequate for detection of infestation.

The list of host plants is limited and not in line with the EPPO standard, which pose a risk to overlook infestations of the pest and delay eradication.

There is a good information campaign in place in all three regions affected by A. glabripennis.

5.4.4 Control measures

Findings

Lombardy

The RPS stated that in the 2010 outbreak, two infested Acer trees were immediately felled and that preventive felling (clear cut) of host plants within 100 m around infested plants was performed, and that felled trees were destroyed by chipping. In 2013, three Acer plants were found infested and the same control measures were applied.

Veneto

In 2012, a new decree was adopted in order to improve the felling and removal of all infested and asymptomatic host plants in a radius of 50 m around infested trees.

The RPS stated that during the flying period felling of infested trees and preventive felling is not performed immediately following a finding, but only during the non-flying period and is finished by May, the following year at the latest. The RPS decided not to proceed with felling during the flight period because of the risk of spread of adults. The RPS stated that if beetles are not disturbed they stay on the tree from which they emerged. Infested trees are mainly located in urban areas and use of insecticide before felling is not considered an option.

The number of infested trees detected has significantly decreased and the number of asymptomatic trees preventively felled has increased since the last FVO audit in 2010. At the time of the audit felling of this season had not yet started, because of the low number of trees to be felled and finalisation of the monitoring was awaited. The RPS stated that all the infested trees were going to be felled and destroyed by chipping within a month.

Marche

The RPS stated that control measures taken are the same as those in the Veneto region and as agreed with the Single Authority. The RPS further stated that the felling of infested trees and preventive felling of asymptomatic host plants in a radius of 50 m around infested plants is being implemented. The radius of preventive felling was taken from the experiences in the Veneto region, however a high infestation rate of the pest in the Marche outbreak and the presence of large number of highly infested host plants were not taken into consideration as recommended by the EPPO standard PM 9/15 (1). There is a risk, due to the smaller radius of preventive felling as recommended, that trees with hidden infestation in the vicinity are not felled and thus the risk of further spread of the pest

14 and delaying eradication.

Felling of infested trees started in Autumn 2013 and was continuing at the time of the audit. Complete removal of all infested trees, including preventive felling will not be finalised until April 2014. As seen in the ASSAM instructions for felling and destruction of infested and preventive felled trees, the period of felling is the non-flying period from 1 November to 31 March.

Owners are obliged to cut the infested trees, however, they must first notify the RPS and cut the trees under their supervision. Municipalities and the RPS organise and cover the costs for the transport of infested material and destruction by chipping. The RPS inspectors together with the municipality technicians verified the implementation of felling.

In order to strengthen the cooperation among the stakeholders involved in the fight against the pest the operational agreement is under preparation by the RPS. Signatories of the agreement will be the RPS, municipalities involved and the public company for waste collection.

The RPS stated that due to the lack of staff, no systematic investigation of felled trees in preventive felling is carried out as recommended in the EPPO standard PM 9/15 (1). Preventively felled trees with hidden infestation are not identified and potential additional preventive felling is not carried out.

For additional control of felling and destruction of infested wood, the manager of the chipping station collects the tags from the infested plants and records data in a log book. The log book and tags collected are sent to the RPS monthly.

The FVO team visited three outbreak sites and the chipping station and noted:

• Heavily infested plants with exit holes and clear signs of infestation such as frass and oviposition pits were observed.

• The owner of the felled infested tree confirmed that the tree was felled by workers arranged by them and the wood was taken away by the municipal service. She also confirmed that she was aware of the pest and that communication to fell the infested tree was received from municipal authorities.

• Destruction of infested wood by chipping to the appropriate size to avoid further spread of the pest was carried out within the demarcated area. The manager of the chipping station confirmed the system of collecting tags and reporting to the RPS.

Felling of infested trees is not carried out immediately following detection of A. glabripennis during the flying period in the Veneto and Marche regions. This approach is not harmonised with the EPPO standard PM 9/15 (1) which recommends immediate felling after detection of the pest and poses a risk of increasing the pest population. Although it is recognised that immeditate felling is preferable, the RPS in both regions considered this and concluded as not appropriate due to the potential spread of the adults.

Conclusions

The control measures taken by the RPSs with the aim of eradicating the pest are generally appropriate. Infested trees and asymptomatic host plant trees in preventive felling are cut down and

15 safely destroyed. However, the control measures in Marche which are not fully in line with the international standard and they compromise the effectiveness of eradication.

The international recommendation for immediate felling of infested trees is not followed in Veneto and Marche, but the RPSs have considered, that the risk of further spread of adults due to felling is greater.

5.4.5 Control of the movement of susceptible material

Findings

Lombardy

The RPS stated as the FVO team verified on the map that there are no nurseries in the A. glabripennis demarcated area.

Veneto

There are seven nurseries present in the demarcated area with a small production of plants for planting. The RPS stated that control measures include the treatment of host plants with insecticide from May to September, the keeping of a register of the movement of host plants and the mandatory official inspection of host plants before selling. A ban on the movement of host plants for planting was imposed for the nurseries with the host plants for planting located in the infested zone. Results of the demarcated area survey are utilised for the nurseries and the RPS inspectors visit nurseries at least once a year.

The representative of the ornamental plant nursery in the buffer zone visited stated that they do not produce the host plants as they are a branch of a big nursery from an another region. The host plants in the nursery were excluded from sale and served only as a show case for customers. The representative stated that they have never found symptoms or infestation of A. glabripennis in the nursery.

The FVO team noted:

• The RPS had performed documentary check to confirm that the insecticide treatment of host plants and a register of movement of host plants with a location map was available and updated.

• The representative was well aware of the pest and confirmed the RPS inspections of the nursery.

• Information material on A. glabripennis was available in the office of the nursery.

The RPS stated that timber and brushwood of host plants originating in the demarcated area can move out from the demarcated area only if they are chipped. The regional forestry service has to authorise any felling activities according the regional decree for the pest. The RPS stated that the type of vegetation is not appropriate for fire wood production, which is sourced from other countries.

The FVO team visited a saw mill which also trades in fire wood. The representative stated that they

16 do not process wood sourced from the demarcated area. They use only two types of wood (beech and fir) sourced from other regions or other countries. Fire wood is sourced from another country which is not recognised risky for A. glabripennis.

Green waste from private gardens is collected as biodegradable waste by a public waste management company. Material is chipped and fermentated with the organic waste. The RPS visits the landfill and checks the surrounding host plants and has not found any signs of infestation.

Marche

The RPS stated that the first control measure adopted in August 2013 was a ban on transport and the selling of all host plants planting material. Another measure was a prohibition of planting of host plants in the demarcated area and mandatory insecticide treatment of the host plants in nurseries during the flying period. The RPS stated that evaluation of specific measures for nurseries, including preventive measures, is still ongoing.

There were seven small nurseries in the delimited area and the RPS inspected all of them in September 2013 and informed the owners about the pest and measures adopted. A second visit to all nurseries took place in December 2013 when obligations for nurseries were explained and host plants were inspected. The last RPS inspection of the nursery was in January 2014.

The FVO team visited a nursery and noted:

• The owner confirmed the visits of RPS inspectors and was well informed about the measures and obligations for the plant propagating material including a ban of the movement of host plants.

• The FVO team checked the report of the nursery inspection of December 2013 and found that the nursery was compliant with the requirements.

Wood and cut waste can be moved outside the demarcated area only if it is chipped. The RPS stated that the provincial forestry service has to authorise any felling activities and the forestry service seek prior confirmation from them and that they had blocked two sites with cutting in a buffer zone.

The green waste is collected and disposed at the integrated waste management plant outside the demarcated area where it is grounded and deposited as biodegradable waste.

Conclusions

Appropriate measures were taken to control the movement of host plants and susceptible material within and outside of the demarcated area.

5.5 AROMIA BUNGII

Legal requiremens

As a non regulated harmfull organism Aromia bungii falls under Article 16(2) of Council Directive 2000/29/EC which states that a Member State shall immediately notify in writing the Commission and the other Member States of the actual appearance in its territory of any harmful organisms not listed in Annexes to the Directive whose presence was previously unknown in its territory. It shall

17 inform the Commission and the other Member States of the protective measures taken or intended to be taken. These measures must, inter alia, be such as to prevent risk of spread of the harmful organism concerned in the territory of the other Member States.

5.5.1 Outbreaks and notification

Findings

Aromia bungii has been recorded in the Lombardy and Campania regions.

Lombardy

In July 2013, a citizen in the Sedriano municipality (Milan Province) took a picture of an Aromia bungii adult and reported it to the RPS. Later, two adult specimens were found by the RPS in the neighbouring municipality emerging from the trunk of a peach tree, which was felled and stored as a firewood by the owner (see 5.3.2.2). The finding was notified to the Commission and the Member States in August 2013.

Campania The pest was first recorded in September 2012 in an urban area located between Naples and Pozzuoli, on several plum (Prunus domestica) and apricot (P. armeniaca) trees in parks and gardens. The infestation was first noticed by members of the public who alerted the RPS. Currently it is present and under eradication in five municipalities. The MIPAAF notified the Commission and the Member States in October 2012. An update of the situation with the control measures implemented was notified in March 2013. Conclusions

The appearence of Aromia bungii and control measures were notified to the Commission and the Member States in line with EU legislation.

5.5.2 Establishment of demarcated area

Findings

Infested zone for Aromia bungii in Lombardy is within the infested area for A. glabripennis and A. chinesis.

In Campania the demarcation of the outbreak with the infested area of 2 km around infested tree(s) and the 5 km buffer zone has been finalised. The infested area is situated in the municipalities of Marano Di Napoli, Napoli, Monte Di Procida, Pozzuoli and Quarto. The buffer zone is located in the area of 11 surrounding municipalities. Conclusions

No specific demarcation area was considered as necessary in Lombardy as it is consistent with demarcated area for other longhorn beetles. The demarcated area of A. bungii in Campania was demarcated in a very precautionary manner and due to the large buffer zone more extensive controls of the pest are carried out.

18 5.5.3 Specific surveys and information campaigns

Findings

Specific surveys

Lombardy

The RPS stated that a survey started immediately after a notification of a finding in Lombardy. During this initial survey, 260 trees (mainly Acer campestre and Prunus armeniaca) were checked and no symptoms of the presence of the pest were found. An annual survey for A. glabripennis including checks for A. bungii has started for 2014. There were 5 521 trees checked in Sedriano, Corbetta and Vittuone municipalities involving mainly Prunus, Populus and Acer spp. and no symptoms or infested plants were found.

Campania

In Campania, surveys are carried out by the RPS in accordance with Regional decree No. 330/2014. Some 16 staff (inspectors and technicians) are involved in controls of A. bungii. The activities started in September 2012 to identify the spread of the pest.

By the end of August 2013, 140 sites had been inspected and 41 of which were found infested. The estimated number of infested trees was 560. Since September 2012 until the end of February 2014, in total 327 sites had been inspected and 59 of which were found infestated. The estimated total number of infested trees was 1 000.

Surveys are planned using a grid system to cover the entire demarcated area. The number and the name of the trees checked and an indication of the infested trees are recorded by the RPS in a database. The RPS stated that all potential host plants referred to in the draft EPPO PRA are considered during the survey.

The survey is performed between September and May from the infested plant(s) towards the limit of the infested zone (one team) and from the outer border of the buffer zone towards the infested zone (two teams). The survey activities focus on areas where the pest has been recorded, especially orchards of stone fruits (Prunus spp.) in farms and private gardens. Further surveys are carried out in public areas to check Prunus ornamental plants.

The RPS stated that early symptoms (e.g. frass, galleries) are not typical and may be confused with other indigenous organisms (e.g. Cossus cossus, Cerambyx scopolii).

Traps baited with mixed lure (wine, vinegar and sugar) are placed in the area of infested trees (one trap per one to two trees). They are checked weekly during the flight period of the adults (from June to September) by university staff involved in a related research project (see section 5.6).

Information campaigns No specific A. bungii information campaign is taking place in Lombardy, however an intensive awareness raising campaigning is in place for other longhorn beetles. In Campania, the communication activities to stakeholders and the general public include press releases and articles, leaflets and posters on the characteristics of A. bungii. Specific meetings,

19 workshops and seminars were also organised. Information is available on the regional agricultural website (http://www.agricoltura.regione.campania.it/difesa/aromia.html). Commercials regarding the pest are broadcasted on local radio and television. Apart from the RPS, municipalities and partners of research projects of A. bungii are also involved in the information campaign.

Conclusions

An appropriate suvey is in place which is well organised in Lombardy and Campania.

In Campania an extensive information campaign is carried out through different channels. It ensures that the awareness of A. bungii is raised among stakeholders and the general public. In Lombardy the awareness is achieved through the general longhorn beetles campaign.

5.5.4 Control measures

Findings

The control strategy in the Campania region focuses on eradication measures in small orchards (farms), private gardens and in urban areas which were applied immediately following confirmation of the outbreak. The control measures are implemented by the RPS based on recent Regional Decree No. 330/2014. The RPS stated that felling of the infested trees is carried out between November and end of May (outside the flying period). When infested trees are detected in the flying period, additional measures such as repeated chemical treatment of the trunk is required to depress the pest population and bait traps are put on trees. According to the regional decree, cutting and destruction (chipping and burning) is the responsibility of the owner. Where the RPS inspectors identify an infested tree they mark it and inform the owner in writing. The owner shall inform the RPS of the cutting date in advance. Where the owner cannot fell the tree himself a specialised team "Phytosanitary Emergency Service" is called to step in and their activity accounts for up to 50% of the cases. Infested trees are being felled generally under the supervision of the RPS inspectors and destroyed by chipping on site or close by. They verify that removal of infested trees has been carried out by visits to infested sites. Preventive felling is not taking place, but the RPS stated that they considered it but decided not to implement it because of the high economic value of the fruit trees to be felled. Instead of preventive felling, host plants are intensively inspected in a 100 m radius of the infested trees and the RPS stated that further infested trees have been found during follow up visits. The FVO team visited three farms in outbreak sites and noted: • Farmers were well aware of the symptoms of the pest and confirmed regular visits of the RPS inspectors at their premises. • Removed infested trees had been replaced by other Prunus spp. trees. There is no prohibition on re-planting of host plants in the demarcated area which pose a risk of further spread of the pest. • During the felling of an infested apricot tree symptoms of infestation and old exit holes were noted. The RPS stated that 72 infested trees were felled at the same farm at the beginning of 2013, and one month later additional 10 trees were found infested and were destroyed. The RPS also stated that during the check in February 2014, another 25 trees were found

20 infested, some of them with the old signs of infestation and exit holes and are still to be felled. The RPS stated that symptoms of infestation are clearly visible at an early stage but they are not typical for A. bungii and can be caused by common pests as e.g. Goat moth (Cossus cossus). In large outbreaks, in spite of intensive monitoring infested trees can be overlooked and it is very difficult in practice to detect all infested trees as confirmed by the RPS and noted by the FVO team. Without preventive felling around infested plants it is very unlikely to achieve eradication of the pest. In order to achieve eradication stricter control measures should be applied including preventive felling of all Prunus spp. trees within a 100 m radius from infested trees, as recommended in the draft EPPO PRA. Conclusions

Control measures which limit substantially the natural spread of the pest were put in place immediately. However, control measures put in place are not considered sufficient to eradicate the pest in the demarcated area. To improve effectiveness of control measures aiming at eradicating the pest, preventive measures should be enhanced. 5.5.5 Control of the movement of susceptible material

Findings

There is no nursery producing susceptible plants in the demarcated area. There are some small garden centres selling small quantities of susceptible plants locally to final consumers.

A. bungii tends to attack older trees with rough bark on the trunk or larger branches, therefore the movement of young trees for planting from nurseries or garden centres is likely to be a low risk.

The owner of an infested trees should obtain an authorisation from the RPS to use the wood for own purposes on site during the non-flying period. One of the farmers visited stated that the wood of infested trees was used on the farm for heating and cooking. The wood was used during the non- flying period in 2013/2014 winter and the RPS who authorised this use, stated that the remaining wood would be destroyed by burning on the site or chipped before May. The RPS stated that five authorisations for the use of infested wood were granted.

Separate collection and safe disposal of waste wood of susceptible plants originating in the infested area is not organised. Green waste is collected by a public waste collecting system and deposited on a landfill outside the demarcated area. Movement of wood, fire-wood and wood waste (pruning) is not subject to control and there is a risk of spread of the pest. This is not in line with the requirements of Article 16(2) of Directive 2000/29/EC that measures adopted must, inter alia, be such as to prevent risk of spread of the harmful organism concerned.

Conclusions

Spreading the pest with planting material is not likely. Use of infested wood on site for own purposes is subject to authorisation and under control. No controls are in place to ensure that infested wood is not moved outside of the demarcated area or is safely destroyed which pose a risk to spread the pest outside the demarcated are.

21 5.6 RESEARCH

Findings

At national level, the MIPAAF funded a research project called “STRATECO” aimed at defining strategies to control pests including A. glabripennis and A. chinensis between 2010 and 2012. The project included the development of diagnostic tools to identify the species in particular larvae, a study on feeding preferences and dating of exit holes, and producing informative material for stakeholders (further information is available at www.strateco.it/).

In Lombardy, a number of research projects have been carried out since the establishment of longhorn beetles in the region. According to the RPS, the most important research recently was on developing laboratory methods for rearing a potential biological control agent Aprostocetus anoplophorae (Hym.: Eulophidae), an egg parasite specific to A. chinensis. This experiment is still ongoing.

In Veneto, since A. glabripennis was found, the RPS and the University of Padova have been actively collaborating in the eradication of the pest. A number of studies on detection, biology, and control strategies of A. glabripennis have been carried out and research on biological control is ongoing.

In Marche, the RPS is collaborating with a research institute in Florence to determine the age of infestation with the exit holes analysis and results of this research are not yet available.

In Campania, two research projects regarding A. bungii are being carried out in cooperation with two universities. The research includes trapping, spread of the pest, chemical and biological control (trials on the efficacy of insecticides with chemical and biological active ingredients) and a molecular study of frass.

Conclusions

A national project and a range of a research activities have been carried out to support implementing control measures for longhorn beetles in Italy.

6 OVERALL CONCLUSIONS

The FVO team found that in Lombardy, where Anoplophora chinensis has been present for years, the control measures implemented have resulted in the stabilisation of the situation, although the eradication is not feasible. Control measures aimed at the eradication of Anoplophora glabripennis have also been implemented. The situation with regards to A. glabripennis in Veneto has improved. Emergency measures were taken immediately following the finding of A. glabripennis in 2013 in Marche. The delimitation of the outbreak area is still in progress. Some shortcomings identified by the FVO team will, if not addressed, delay eradication. The list of host plants for A. glabripennis, which is not harmonised across regions, may compromise the control activities. In Campania, the outbreak area of Aromia bungii has been demarcated in a very precautionary manner. Control measures were put in place immediately, and these will substantially limit the

22 natural spread of the pest, but are unlikely to result in its eradication. There is also a limited risk that the pest could spread outside the area with wood / fire wood, which is not regulated. In all four regions visited, there are effective awareness raising campaigns in place targeting different stakeholders.

7 CLOSING MEETING

A closing meeting was held on 14 March 2014 with representatives of the Single Authority and of the RPSs of the Regions visited. At this meeting, the FVO team presented the main findings and preliminary conclusions of the audit. The Single Authority did not express disagreement.

8 RECOMMENDATIONS

The Single Authority in Italy should:

N°. Recommendation

1. Ensure that the appearance or suspected appearance of a harmful organisms as referred to in Article 16(1) of Directive 2000/29/EC is notified immediately, in line with Article 16(1) of Directive 2000/29/EC.

2. Regarding Anoplophora glabripennis, ensure that all necessary measures to eradicate or, if that is impossible, inhibit the spread of the pest are taken, in line with Article 16(1) of Directive 2000/29/EC, in particular that the list of host plants is harmonised based on experience in Italy to avoid compromising the control activities for eradication of the pest.

3. Regarding Anoplophora glabripennis, ensure that all necessary measures to eradicate or, if that is impossible, inhibit the spread of the pest are taken, in line with Article 16(1) of Directive 2000/29/EC, and as provided for in the EPPO standard PM 9/15 (1), in particular to ensure appropriate survey strategy for inspection of plants taking into consideration the biology of the pest where inspection from the ground is not sufficient.

4. Regarding Anoplophora glabripennis, ensure that all necessary measures to eradicate or, if that is impossible, inhibit the spread of the pest are taken, in line with Article 16(1) of Directive 2000/29/EC, and as provided for in the EPPO standard PM 9/15 (1), in particular (a) immediate felling and destruction of symptomatic trees found during the flying period; (b) implement preventive felling of asymptomatic host plants in a wider radius around infested trees in outbreaks with a high infestation rate of the pest and the presence of large number of highly infested host plants; (c) perform systematic investigation of preventively felled asymptomatic host plants.

5. Regarding Aromia bungii, ensure that all necessary measures are taken to prevent risk of the spread of the pest, in line with 16(2) of Directive 2000/29/EC, in particular that preventive felling of asymptomatic host plants is implemented, to avoid further spread of the pest.

23 N°. Recommendation

6. Regarding Aromia bungii, ensure that all necessary measures are taken to prevent risk of spread of the pest, in line with 16(2) of Directive 2000/29/EC, in particular that host plants are not allowed to be re-planted in the infested area.

7. Regarding Aromia bungii, ensure that all necessary measures are taken to prevent risk of spread of the pest, in line with 16(2) of Directive 2000/29/EC, in particular that movement of host plant wood and wood waste is regulated and controlled.

The competent authority's response to the recommendations can be found at:

http://ec.europa.eu/food/fvo/rep_details_en.cfm?rep_inspection_ref=2014-7192

24 ANNEX 1 - LEGAL REFERENCES

Legal Reference Official Journal Title

Dir. 2000/29/EC OJ L 169, 10.7.2000, Council Directive 2000/29/EC of 8 May 2000 on p. 1-112 protective measures against the introduction into the Community of organisms harmful to plants or plant products and against their spread within the Community

Dec. 2012/138/EU OJ L 64, 3.3.2012, p. 2012/138/EU: Commission Implementing Decision 38-47 of 1 March 2012 as regards emergency measures to prevent the introduction into and the spread within the Union of Anoplophora chinensis (Forster)

25 ANNEX 2 - STANDARDS QUOTED IN THE REPORT

International Standard Title ISPM No. 9 International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures N°9, Guidelines for pest eradication programmes, Food and Agriculture Organisation PM 9/15 (1) National regulatory control systems: Anoplophora glabripennis: procedures for official control, European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organisation PM 9/16 (1) National regulatory control systems: Anoplophora chinensis: procedures for official control, European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organisation