As part of the training activities promoted by Montado Living Lab, an initiative of CHANGE – Laboratório Associado coordinated by the University of Évora, two new training activities were recently held as part of the cross-border project SOS PRODEHESA MONTADO.
These initiatives are being developed in the context of SOS PRODEHESA MONTADO, a project funded by the POCTEP programme, which focuses on strengthening the sustainability and resilience of pasture and montado systems through cross-border cooperation, knowledge transfer and training for stakeholders in the region.
2nd edition of the training course ‘Cattle Management in the Montado Context’
On 20 and 27 November 2025, the 2nd edition of the training course ‘Cattle Management in the Montado Context’ took place, organised in collaboration with ACOS – Associação de Agricultores do Sul.
The course was once again led by Professor Manuel Cancela de Abreu, retired lecturer at the University of Évora, and brought together around 30 participants, including farmers, technicians and other professionals from the sector.
The practical component included a field visit to Herdade dos Grous, in Albernoa, where it was possible to observe and discuss on the ground management strategies adapted to the specificities of the montado, promoting the exchange of experiences and the deepening of technical knowledge applicable to agroforestry farms.
Awareness Day ‘Pruning cork oaks and holm oaks – Good Forestry Practices’
More recently, on 19 February 2026, an Awareness Day dedicated to ‘Pruning cork oaks and holm oaks – Good Forestry Practices’ was held at Herdade de Castelo Ventoso, in Azaruja.
This initiative was organised in collaboration with the Instituto da Conservação da Natureza e das Florestas (ICNF) and was led by Fernanda Rodrigues, with the support of the Borba team of foresters. The session focused on the technical principles and good practices associated with pruning cork oaks and holm oaks, highlighting their importance for the vitality of the trees and the sustainability of the system.
In line with the objectives of the SOS PRODEHESA MONTADO project, these training sessions aimed to reinforce theoretical and practical knowledge in key areas for the sustainable management of montado and dehesa. Given the high level of participation and interest, the Montado Living Lab will continue to organise this type of initiative aimed at the various agents in the territory involved in the management of these agroforestry systems.
