Conifer dieback has been recorded in the Lakhamula Valley, located within the Mestia forest district of the Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti Forestry Service. Forest entomologists conducted a field study on site to assess the sanitary condition of the spruce stands, uncovering signs confirming the presence of pests and diseases.

"The European spruce bark beetle is a globally recognized pest affecting spruce stands. The National Forestry Agency has long-standing experience in monitoring this pest and implementing appropriate management measures.

Specifically, the agency has been carrying out monitoring and relevant sanitary interventions for the European spruce bark beetle in the spruce stands of the Samtskhe-Javakheti region since 2012. To monitor the pest in the Lakhamula Valley, pheromone traps have been deployed. The area remains under continuous surveillance by specialists so that, if necessary, timely forestry measures can be executed", - said Natia Iordanishvili, Deputy Head of the National Forestry Agency.

Due to the rugged terrain in the Lakhamula Valley, the forest stands are difficult to access. Under such conditions, implementing sanitary measures requires a tailored evaluation for each specific plot to balance forest protection goals while preventing risks related to human safety, soil erosion, and environmental damage.