Scrubland, often perceived as a neglected or unproductive landscape, plays a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity and supporting the regeneration of tree cover in dehesas and montados. When managed sustainably, scrubland contributes significantly to environmental balance and agricultural productivity.
The Benefits of Sustainable Scrubland Management
Recent studies highlight the ecological advantages of well-maintained scrubland, demonstrating its importance for both biodiversity conservation and land sustainability.
- Biodiversity Boost: Farms that integrate sustainable scrubland management practices can host up to 40% more biodiversity than those that do not. This includes an increase in the variety of plant species, insects, birds, and mammals that rely on diverse habitats for survival.
- Soil Erosion Reduction: The presence of plant cover in scrubland reduces soil erosion by 35%, preserving the integrity of the landscape and preventing the loss of valuable topsoil due to wind and water runoff.
- Enhanced Water Retention: Sustainable scrubland management helps improve water retention, ensuring soil moisture levels remain stable, reducing drought impact, and securing sufficient food resources for livestock throughout the year.
A Key Element for Dehesas and Montados
In Mediterranean silvopastoral systems like dehesas and montados, scrubland is not merely an area to be cleared but an integral part of the ecosystem. It serves as a natural shelter for wildlife, a source of organic material that enriches the soil, and a buffer that mitigates climate extremes.
Learning to Manage Scrubland Efficiently
To help farmers, landowners, and conservationists harness the benefits of scrubland, the LIFE ScrubsNet project provides valuable resources on sustainable management strategies. By implementing best practices, stakeholders can enhance ecosystem services while maintaining productive and resilient landscapes.
📩 Learn more about scrubland management and access practical resources:
👉 https://lifescrubsnet.eu/project-material/