About OAK-HOPE

Oak trees are keystone species

Quercus species are among the most important tree groups worldwide, occurring mostly in the northern hemisphere and extending across multiple environments. They are keystone species in both natural and urban environments, helping sustain ecosystems by providing food and shelter for a wide range of species, and are fundamental to clean air, clean water and nutrient cycling. As a source of valuable products including timber and cork, oaks are economically important. Oaks also hold a special place in human culture, symbolic of strength and endurance.

Oak trees and their ecosystems need help

Globally, trees are experiencing rapid environmental change, challenging their ability to adapt. Oak trees are particularly negatively affected, with widespread decline and death across multiple ecosystems. Without urgent intervention, oak ecosystems and the vital services they provide are at serious risk.

OAK-HOPE provides a hub and network for anyone interested in oaks and oak ecosystems. The core mission of OAK-HOPE is to bring scientists and stakeholders together to engage in knowledge exchange, building capacity and developing ideas and tools to protect, restore and preserve oaks and their ecosystem services.

OAK-HOPE offers hope

OAK-HOPE is in the process of seeking funding and support for its aims – a COST Action is a key focus. Our network collaborates with cornerstone organisations such as the International Oak Society, IUFRO and FEDEHESA, and currently includes nearly 200 members representing 27 countries.

OAK-HOPE aims to establish a global, integrated and multidisciplinary network to identify key challenges, build capacity and implement practical solutions to safeguard and restore oak ecosystems, and put biodiversity on the path to recovery, for the benefit of people, climate and the planet.

JOIN US! Membership is free