The SOS ProDehesa Montado project was born with the purpose of protecting one of the most iconic and vulnerable ecosystems of the Iberian Peninsula: the dehesa and the montado. These agroforestry systems are not only a haven of biodiversity, but also essential pillars for the rural economies and cultural heritage of Spain and Portugal.

An ecosystem at risk

The dehesa and montado face serious threats that jeopardise their long-term viability. Lack of regeneration of key species, climate change, soil degradation and loss of economic profitability are just some of the challenges they face. Moreover, their maintenance requires a delicate balance between human activity and the conservation of the natural environment.

Cross-border collaboration as a key to success

The project brings together a diverse consortium of partners from both sides of the border, including universities, research centres, producer associations and non-governmental organisations. This cross-border collaboration enables shared challenges to be addressed from a holistic perspective, fostering the exchange of knowledge, experience and resources.

Main objectives

SOS ProDehesa Montado works along three main lines:

• Forest regeneration: Promoting the recovery of native plant species, such as holm oaks, cork oaks and other key plants, essential for the sustainability of the ecosystem.
• Sustainable management: Implementing management practices that maintain a balance between production and conservation, ensuring the responsible use of resources such as water and soil.
• Valorisation of traditional products: Promoting innovation and the market for products derived from the dehesa, such as cork, honey, wool and meat, to guarantee the economic profitability of agroforestry farms.

A commitment to sustainability and the rural future

Beyond the immediate results, SOS ProDehesa Montado aims to promote a paradigm shift in the management of the dehesa and the montado, making them more resilient and sustainable. Through the training of local actors, the transfer of technologies and the creation of collaborative networks, the project aims to ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the benefits that these ecosystems provide.

With this initiative, the Iberian Peninsula is at the forefront of agroforestry landscape conservation, demonstrating that innovation, tradition and cooperation can converge to ensure a more sustainable future.