Dehesas with a future: managing the whole system to support regeneration
Dehesa regeneration does not depend on a single measure. Trees, scrub, grassland, livestock, soil, water and biodiversity form part of the same system, and decisions …
Mixed grazing: different livestock species for better use of dehesa resources
Combining livestock species can allow more complete use of the resources available on a holding. Cattle, sheep and goats do not graze in the same …
Measuring browsing: observing in order to manage the dehesa better
Good grazing management also means measuring its effects. The LIFE ScrubsNet protocol proposes assessing browsing by taking into account two key factors: the palatability of …
Plant guards: helping young trees through their most vulnerable years
Seedlings and young trees are particularly vulnerable to browsing, trampling, rooting and other pressures from livestock. Where natural vegetation does not provide sufficient shelter, plant …
Fencing for biodiversity: when livestock infrastructure also supports conservation
Fences, nets and mesh are not only used to keep livestock within a paddock. When properly planned, they can organise grazing, protect crops and grassland, …
Phlomis purpurea and dehesa decline: a less visible service provided by scrub
The Mediterranean shrub Phlomis purpurea provides an example of how the value of scrub extends well beyond forage or shelter. The LIFE ScrubsNet protocol highlights …
Hedgerows and riparian woodland: discreet allies for a more diverse and resilient dehesa
Hedgerows along field boundaries and woody vegetation associated with streams and watercourses may receive less attention than the large grasslands and trees of the dehesa, …
Mediterranean forage species: choosing the right plant for each holding
Wild olive, tree lucerne, tagasaste, Atriplex, mulberry, albaida, argan and carob are identified in the LIFE ScrubsNet protocol as species of forage interest. However, they …
10Forage in times of scarcity: the strategic value of shrubs in the dehesa
When herbaceous pasture becomes scarce, forage shrubs and trees can provide leaves, shoots, browse, flowers and fruit. These resources diversify livestock diets and may become …
Livestock and vegetation: every species matters in dehesa management
Cattle, sheep, goats and pigs do not use vegetation in the same way. Differences in dietary selection, grazing height and browsing ability directly influence grassland, …