The President of the Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation, IP-RAM (IFNC), Manuel Filipe, and the President of the Institute of Wine, Embroidery and Handicrafts of Madeira (IVBAM), Tiago Freitas, carried out follow-up visits to winegrowers on the north coast of Madeira Island, as part of a damage limitation survey of their needs, taking into account the devastation caused by the October 2023 fires.
In order to replenish the bard belt of the plots affected and consumed by fire, the IFNC has provided beech trees, which will help provide a wind barrier to exposed vineyards. In turn, the IVBAM will allocate some vines to maintain and guarantee the productive potential of the affected farms. So far, 200 beech trees have been delivered to six winegrowers from Fajã de Barro, Porto Moniz.
Of course, beech trees provide a form of food as well, as both their leaves (these have to be young) and nuts are edible. Beech trees were once revered and are often associated with learning, knowledge, and books. The Celts worshipped Fagus who was the tree God of prosperity. Its branches were used for divining, and small pieces of beech wood and leaves were carried around as a symbol of good luck and positive energy. Furthermore, you can use the tree’s nuts to make Beechnut oil, coffee, butter, and leaves to create Noyau liqueur. If nothing else, they are great for the local animal and insect population.
Samantha Gannon
info at madeira-weekly.com
