On September 24, 2026, the Mykolas Romeris University (MRU) Environmental Management Research Laboratory (EML) team organised the fourth stakeholder workshop of the OPTimising FORest management decisions for a low-carbon, climate-resilient future in Europe (OptFor-EU) project, focusing on the Čepkeliai–Dzūkija National Park case study.

The online workshop brought together representatives from government institutions, academia and the forestry sector. Its main objective was to present the project’s Decision Support System (DSS), designed to support data-driven forest management decisions.

At the beginning of the workshop, participants were introduced to the main objectives and activities of the OptFor-EU project. Particular attention was given to the functionality and practical application of the DSS. The MRU Environmental Management Research Laboratory team demonstrated the system’s key functions and presented supporting tools, including the Evaluator Manual.

The presentation was followed by an active discussion. Participants raised questions about the data sources used by the DSS, planned future updates, long-term maintenance of the system and its potential application across wider geographical areas.

Following the workshop, stakeholders were invited to test the DSS independently and complete an evaluation survey. The survey aims to gather feedback on the system’s clarity, ease of use and practical value in supporting forest management decisions.

The workshop provided an opportunity for researchers and stakeholders to exchange perspectives and assess the system from both scientific and practical viewpoints. Participants’ professional expertise and knowledge of the local context contribute to evaluating the DSS against real-world forest management needs and support its further development.

The project is funded by the European Union’s Horizon Europe programme under Grant Agreement No. 101060554.