“The selection was made after extensive research in which the program picked the ones who are more in danger with plans of expanding the effort in the future” stated Filipe Moreira, a forest technician part of the project .
One of these villages is Cadafaz, a former victim of the 2017 wildfires. Here the project is being undertaken by experts (i.e civil engineers, environmentalists), despite its steepness and different elevation not allowing heavy machinery’s aid. The main plan is to create a ring of fire resistant trees around the village serving as a barrier against the fires and thus preserving them. This is achieved through different zones where different techniques are applied with the the most prevalent one being planting of fruit trees, chestnuts and especially cherry trees as they are a part of the local tradition. One of the most innovative techniques is their attempt to copy the way they manage the land in Douro Valley implementing steps where they plant trees. Another goal is to unite the landowners and the locals to help with this cause so they preserve their precious villages which are rich in history and culture. This is achieved by raising public awareness so they provide all help needed. Lastly they are trying to implement operations such as installation of a community composter, control of invasive exotic species and expansion of the irrigation system by installing 1 water reservoir, repairing the already existing one and providing more water hoses and access points.
Despite its success the project has faced many issues. “Most of the landowners in the area within the program’s zones are happy to help but some do not want to understand and are making our lives difficult”, said Filipe Moreira. On top of that it is not rare to have difficulties in identifying and contacting landowners.
The members of the project are satisfied with the results so far but highlight “This project is The Last Barrier for Wildfires and we must make it worth it, because the cost is really high”. The whole project makes the local environmentalists emotional, but also sceptical about its sustainability and future because as it was stated “The owners must maintain it in the future” something which is highly unlikely due to the owners being elders in the majority. “I want the owners to maintain the project. It is my dream. I want it!”, said Filipe.
