Experimental Landscape CCDesert
Regenerating the Forest of Mértola
a process that tests different approaches to ecological regeneration
This process tests different approaches to ecological regeneration. In its first phase, it was promoted in partnership by the Municipality of Alcoutim, the Municipality of Mértola, Terra Sintrópica, and the Association of Forest Owners of the Cumeadas do Baixo Guadiana.
These entities sought to research and test innovative solutions to the challenge of desertification in southern Portugal. Starting on three pilot plots, with a total of approximately 4 hectares, located in Mértola’s Forest Perimeter and in Mértola’s Agroecology Center CARES.
In Mértola’s Forest Perimeter, Terra Sintrópica’s proposal focuses on transforming acacia and eucalyptus monocultures into biodiverse and productive forests through implementing successional agroforestry systems.
a mosaic that is alive and resilient
The process integrates existing species—acacia and eucalyptus—into a living, resilient mosaic, using pruning, planting, and continuous monitoring to stimulate the forest’s natural succession.
In the forest perimeter of Mértola, TS’s proposal is based on transforming acacia and eucalyptus monocultures into biodiverse and productive forests through the implementation of successive agroforestry systems.
The process integrates existing species — acacia and eucalyptus — into a living and resilient mosaic, using pruning, planting, and continuous monitoring to stimulate the natural succession of the forest..
new forest management models
After the end of the financing, TS continues to manage and monitor the plots installed through its own funds (Horta da Malhadinha plot) and with the support of the Municipality of Mértola (for plots within the forest perimeter).
Through this approach, TS explores new forest management models that integrate species often vilified as important elements in the regeneration of an ecosystem’s resilience.
Recognizing that the need for change is the responsibility of those who have degraded the natural environment, holistic approaches such as those tried here seek to respond simultaneously to several challenges affecting Portuguese and European forests: drought, fires, and other extreme weather events.
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