The Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Forestry stated on Terceira that the Azorean Government will continue increasing the network of agricultural service stations in the archipelago.
 
"With this type of service, we make life easier for farmers. As they say, time is money," said João Ponte, who spoke at the opening of the Agricultural Service in Fontinhas, municipality of Praia da Vitória. On the occasion, he noted that "these proximity services are very important. "
 
The Fontinhas Agricultural Service Station is the result of a partnership between the Parish Council, the Town Hall and the Regional Government. It covers farmers from 400 farms and more than 8,000 animals.
 
In this position, agricultural and livestock producers may receive technical support to carry out administrative tasks to which they are legally obliged, such as the record of movements (purchase, sale, slaughter, birth and death of animals) and the issuance of transport guides.
 
João Ponte stressed that the Fontinhas Station stems from a "perfect partnership" between the three levels of executive power that, "with a proactive and constructive spirit, have joined efforts to leave something for the future and to those who will use this service on a daily basis."
 
In his speech, the government official acknowledged the importance of local power for the agricultural sector due to its proximity to farmers, considering it as an "active partner," pointing out, for example, the partnerships in the campaigns for rodent control, water supply to farms and interventions in agricultural roads.
 
The work carried out by the various Agricultural Service stations on Terceira Island represent more than 40,000 annual records, which demonstrates the importance of the essential services rendered by these stations for the agricultural sector.
 
The collaboration protocol signed today ensures, through the Agrarian Development Service of Terceira, the resources and technicians for training at the service station in the village of Cabo da Praia.
 
João Ponte also announced the planned opening of other agricultural service stations on the islands of São Miguel and Terceira, reinforcing a network with almost 40 stations spread throughout the archipelago.