The Action comprises 4 work packages (WP). WP1 involves preparation activities, WP2 and WP3 are the core actions of the project and WP4 includes the project management and dissemination activities.
WP1 constitutes the first step of the implementation of the project. It includes all the necessary preparation activities such as the selection of the project site in the Trabzon region and literature review. The information that will be collected will provide the basis for the development of the protocol. Last, during this phase, the sampling plan will be drafted for the activities included in WP2. This task includes the determination of the sampling method, plot size, allocation and measured parameters. A detailed inventory sheet will be drafted, which will contain clarifications where needed regarding the parameters or the measurement method.
WP2 includes field works to gather data regarding the current state of the planted conifer forest in question. Field measurements will be applied to estimate the above ground live tree volume, the increment as well as the shrub volume. Other measurements will provide data for standing dead wood, lying dead wood, litter, etc. The number of parameters to be measured will be determined in the sampling plan, elaborated during WP1. In case those allometric equations are not available for the forest tree species that will be studied carbon analysis will be performed.
The results of WP2 will be utilized to establish the baseline situation and model the effects of applying different management practices on planted forests to increase carbon sequestration and net GHG emissions removal.
Possible improved management activities may include: increasing the overall age of the forest by increasing rotation period, increasing the forest productivity by thinning diseased and suppressed trees, managing competing brush and short-lived forest species and maintaining stocks at a high level, as proposed by the Climate Action Reserve (2012).
Different management scenarios will be analyzed in order to finalize the protocol and propose the suitable treatments/management activities in each case. The analysis results will be incorporated into the protocol, which will determine the best practices, based on the current conditions and management objectives.
WP4 includes the project management, as well as the visibility activities for the promotion of the Action, which will be carried out throughout the project duration. KTU will be the Action coordinator, responsible for monitoring its activities and contacting the Contracting Authority.
The first activity involves the project kick-off meeting in Orestiada, Thrace. This will provide the chance for the project team members to meet face to face and determine the exact work plan. A communication plan, detailed timetable and respective milestones to secure timely completion of deliverables will be part of the kick-off meeting minutes.
The Action also involves visibility activities aiming to promote public awareness regarding climate change and the important role of forest management in the mitigation of its impact.
Visibility activities include the creation of the Action logo and also the publication of leaflets, posters and the common protocol in Turkish, Greek and English. All information material will be available online, through the DUTH portal. The Action and the European Union's financial contribution will be displayed in all project deliverables and publications.
Moreover, one (1) info-day will be held in Trabzon, followed by a workshop at the end of the project. Team members from DUTH will attend this 2-day event, which will address education institutes and local – regional authorities. Also, one training session for students per university will be held in order to multiply the positive effect of the project.
The final meeting of the project team will be held after the event, in order to evaluate the overall outcomes of the Action.