Alien Species in Forest Ecology

Background of Summer School / Introduction

Alien species are increasingly influencing the structure, functioning and management of European forest ecosystems. Climate change, global trade and human mobility accelerate the introduction and spread of non-native plants, animals and tree species, creating both challenges and potential opportunities for sustainable forest management. Understanding these dynamics requires interdisciplinary knowledge and international cooperation among future forestry and environmental professionals.

The Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) Alien Species in Forest Ecology addresses these challenges by bringing together students and academic staff from partner universities across Europe. The programme combines online preparatory sessions with an intensive onsite component held at the Forest Experimental Station (FES) of the Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW) in Rogów, Poland. The unique location within a forest research station and arboretum provides an ideal living laboratory for studying alien species directly in the field.

The course integrates lectures, workshops, field excursions, and interactive formats such as group projects and Oxford-style debates. Participants work in thematic groups focusing on alien plants, trees, and animals, allowing them to explore ecological interactions and management implications from multiple perspectives before combining their findings in interdisciplinary discussions.

The programme aims to strengthen scientific knowledge, practical field skills, and international collaboration competencies. By fostering teamwork across cultural and academic backgrounds, the activity prepares students to address complex ecological problems in a European context and contributes to the broader goals of sustainable forest management, biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience.

Hosting University

Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW)

Venue

Forest Experimental Station of Warsaw University of Life Sciences in Rogów, Poland

Date

June 14 - June 19

Participants

20

Previous Knowledge

Participants should be B.Sc. or M.Sc. students in Forestry, Environmental Sciences or related disciplines. Basic knowledge of forest ecology, biodiversity and sustainable forest management is recommended. Participants should be able to work with scientific literature and communicate in English at minimum B2 level.

Course Content

The course focuses on ecological, silvicultural and socio-economic aspects of alien species in forest ecosystems. Content includes:
- alien plants in forest understorey and regeneration processes,
- alien tree species and their role in forest productivity and climate adaptation,
- alien mammals and their impact on forest ecosystems,
- methods of identification, monitoring and management of alien species,
- field-based assessment techniques,
- discussion of risks, benefits and policy implications.

The programme combines online preparatory sessions and onsite intensive field and classroom activities, including workshops, excursions and Oxford-style debates.

Intended Learning Outcome (ILO)

After completing the course, the participants should be able to:
- explain ecological mechanisms related to alien species in forests;
- identify major alien plant, tree and animal species and assess their impacts;
- analyse interactions between alien species and forest ecosystem functioning;
- apply field methods to evaluate occurrence and impacts of alien species;
- interpret scientific data and formulate evidence-based conclusions;
- compare management strategies and discuss their ecological consequences;
- collaborate effectively in international interdisciplinary teams;
- communicate scientific arguments clearly in English, both orally and in writing..

Course Schedule

Online component (6 hours): 14 April, 28 April, 2 June 2026
Onsite component: 14–19 June 2026, FES SGGW Rogów, Poland

Typical onsite structure:
Day 1: Introduction, thematic grouping, lectures
Days 2–4: Fieldwork, workshops, group work (plants, trees, animals)
Day 5: Integration of results, Oxford-style debate
Day 6: Presentations, assessment and wrap-up

Course Language

English

Course Format / Teaching Methods

Interactive lectures
Field excursions and hands-on training
Workshops and group projects
Oxford-style debate
Student presentations
International teamwork and peer learning
Online preparatory seminars.

Credits

ECTS Credits and Workload Overview

Type of Assessment and Assessment Criteria

Assessment includes: active participation in classes and field activities, group project and presentation, contribution to debate and discussions, final reflection/report or short written assignment. Criteria: scientific accuracy, analytical thinking, application of methods, teamwork quality, clarity of communication in English.

Cultural Activities / Social Program

Guided visit to the Rogów Arboretum and Forest Experimental Station, Informal networking events and intercultural evenings, Cultural exchange activities among international student groups - social dinner, Social integration during field trips and shared meals.

Tuition Fees

No tuition fee for Erasmus+ participants. No difference between ELLS and non-ELLS participants (unless required by home institution policies).

Additional Costs

Students cover: travel, accommodation, and meals (included in accommodation package). 

Accommodation

Accommodation is provided at the SGGW Forest Experimental Station in Rogów (14–20 June 2026). Double and triple rooms are available. Approximate cost: €50/day including breakfast, lunch and dinner at the on-site cafeteria. No other option of accommodation available in the vicinity.

Financing - Specific for the Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Program (BIP)

The summer school is structured as a comprehensive Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Program (BIP; blended meaning consisting of an online and on-site part). Prospective participants from ELLS universities outside of Poland, are encouraged to obtain prior to applying 1. an approved Erasmus learning agreement and 2. an approved Erasmus grant agreement for the Blended Intensive Programme for the summer school. Admission priority will be given to participants who have obtained such agreements. You can inquire with your Erasmus coordinator or the ELLS International Relations Officer(s) of your university about the possibility of obtaining such a grant. Also ‘zero grants’, without available money count for approval priority. You can find the list of contact persons for each ELLS university here:
euroleague-study.org/en/r-20337-alliance/r-20346-support-teams/r-20469-international-relations-officers-iro/international-relations-officers-iro.html#Contact Info.

Health Insurance

Participants must hold valid health insurance covering their stay in Poland. EU participants should carry the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Non-EU participants are required to arrange equivalent international insurance before arrival.

Visa

Participants from non-EU countries should check visa requirements at the nearest Polish embassy or consulate and apply in advance. Invitation letters can be provided by the organising institution upon request.

Application Deadline

2 March 2026

Link to online Application form

Will be opened soon

Contact persons for scientific questions

Karol Bronisz — karol_bronisz@sggw.edu.pl Wojciech Kędziora — wojciech_kedziora@sggw.edu.pl 

Contact person for administrative questions

Joanna Żach - joanna_zach@sggw.edu.pl