As part of the European LIFE ScrubsNet project, we are working to restore biodiversity and soil health on two pilot farms in Monfurado (SAC), Portugal, both of which are included in the Natura 2000 Network: Terra das Freiras (TF) and Grupo São Mateus (GSM).
These farms combine cork production and extensive livestock farming (dairy cows at TF, dairy cows and sheep at GSM) and are managed using sustainable practices: rotational grazing on all plots, biodiverse pastures, phosphorus fertilisation to improve soil quality and sufficient water availability for livestock. In addition, GSM is certified organic and also produces fodder for livestock.
Both farms have different stages of regeneration and composition of the shrub layer, so the measures applied were adapted to each context:
🔹 Terra das Freiras (205 ha):
- Dense tree layer of cork oaks with abundant natural regeneration.
- High-density but low-biodiversity shrub layer, dominated by Calicotome villosa and Cistus salviifolius.
- Weed control by shredding every 8 years, without tillage.
- Protection of natural cork oak regeneration using metal mesh.
🔹 São Mateus Group (297 ha):
- Tree layer of cork oaks with low natural regeneration of Quercus spp.
- Scattered shrub layer dominated by Crataegus monogyna, Calicotome villosa and Rubus ulmifolius.
- Presence of other shrub species: Ruscus aculeatus, Smilax aspera, Asparagus spp.
- Weed control by mulching only on upper slopes, without tillage.
- Protection of regeneration by means of nets.
💡 Both farms are located within a Forest Intervention Zone (ZIF) with a forest management plan, and specific actions have been implemented to improve the shrub layer and biodiversity, such as the creation of fenced scrub islands and plantations with selected native species, complemented with locally collected seed balls.
In addition, soil improvement actions were carried out by correcting manganese toxicity with dolomitic limestone to increase fertility and pasture quality.
In future posts, we will show you the results of each measure applied at TF and GSM. Stay tuned and join us on this journey towards a more resilient and biodiverse montado.
Terra das Freiras
Grupo São Mateus
