The Regional Director for Forest Resources revealed today that 14 private investment projects have been approved in the Azores under the PRORURAL+ programme for the establishment of forest stands in agricultural and non-agricultural land, amounting to 403 thousand Euros, covering an area of over 91 hectares. 

"These key investments contribute to the growth of our forested area, minimise soil erosion, reduce the effects of climate change and preserve our environment, among others," said Anabela Isidoro. The private projects approved correspond to investments to be made on the islands of São Jorge, São Miguel and Pico. 

The Regional Director spoke on the sidelines of the visit to a private afforestation project in the parish of Santo Amaro, municipality of Velas, covering an area of 36 hectares. It corresponds to an investment of 128 thousand Euros supported under the PRORURAL+ programme. 
 
“This investment under way on the island of São Jorge is a good example of what is being done by the private sector in this area, which adds up the actions in progress at the level of public forests,” stressed Anabela Isidoro. In addition to cryptomeria, the project included the planting of endemic species, namely Azores blueberry, Azores holly and Azores cherry, which were supplied free of charge by the nurseries of the Regional Directorate for Forest Resources. 

Anabela Isidoro mentioned that endemic and leafy species are used in steep slope areas and in water lines, contributing to improved soil and water management. They are also expected to have a very positive impact on the remaining endemic flora and fauna, with the creation of ecological corridors. 

The Regional Director also pointed out that, besides the support for afforestation actions, a 12-year maintenance premium is also granted to cover the costs arising from the maintenance forest stands, which ranges between 300 and 4,200 Euros per hectare, as well as an annual income loss premium set at 650 Euros per hectare.