Dear friends and colleagues,

On behalf of the Organizing Committee, it is an honor for me to welcome all of you to the next IUFRO Conference of Working Group 2.08.03 “Improvement and Culture of Eucalypts” that will be held in Colonia del Sacramento (Uruguay), from 20-24 November 2023. 

This meeting, under the main title “Enhancing the performance and sustainability of eucalypt plantations to broaden their benefits”, will focus on the sustainable use of eucalypt plantations through a better understanding of the genetics of the genus, appropriate breeding and genetic conservation strategies, and effective silvicultural practices. 

The conference will focus on eucalypt plantations, with three days of talks and one day of field visits. The field trip on the southwestern region of Uruguay will allow participants to know some internationally certified and intensively managed eucalypt plantations, being an excellent opportunity to exchange experiences and discuss management alternatives. 

This meeting will be also a unique opportunity to enjoy the natural beauties of Uruguay, and the wonder of Colonia del Sacramento, one of the oldest towns in Uruguay, declared World Heritage Site by UNESCO. 

We are also preparing an optional post-conference tour to give you the opportunity to know other forestry regions and to delight with different amazing sights of Uruguay.

So, I´m looking forward to welcoming you all in Colonia del Sacramento. 
Dr. Gustavo Balmelli