Chalara is a major threat to ash while P. Ramorum — known as sudden oak death — has been detected in a number of larch forests.While most plant diseases are caused by fungi, they also play a beneficial role in forest ecosystems (see panel). In addition, edible fungi production has long been recognised as a non-wood revenue generator in European forestry. This was discussed at a recent seminar organised by Teagasc and the Society of Irish Foresters in association with the Society of Irish Pathologists.