The Regional Secretary for Tourism, Environment and Culture, Eduardo Jesus, was present at the traditional open-air shearing that took place in Ribeira dos Boieiros, in the Forest Perimeter of the Serras do Poiso. The visit, which was attended by the President of the Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation (IFCN), Manuel Filipe, served as a way for the Regional Government to reinforce their position concerning cattle grazing in the mountains, which they say has to have well-defined rules, safeguarding and promoting environmental sustainability.
“The shearings, organized by the IFCN in collaboration with the Association of Cattle Breeders of the Serras do Poiso (ACGSP), are an event that aims to celebrate a deep-rooted Madeiran tradition, which attracts residents and visitors to the island. About 300 sheep from the ACGSP were today shorn, integrating herds that graze in the pastures of the Perimeter Forestry of the Serras do Poiso under the supervision of the IFCN, which establishes the organisational and discipline strategies appropriate to its maintenance.”
This model of grazing is the result of the ordinance silvopastoral that allows the rational maintenance of the flocks, guided by shepherds who ensure the proper use of pastures, without deterioration of the natural space.
During his visit, Eduardo Jesus underlined that the Regional Government is committed to supporting the Association of Breeders of Cattle from the Poiso Mountains.
In a statement, he said:
“The Regional Government recognises the value of cattle in the mountains, as long as it is done sustainably and respects nature. Therefore, we have been reinforcing support for ACGSP, a partnership that we consider essential for the continued harmony between agriculture and the preservation of our natural heritage.”
Among the support measures are the celebration of a annual programme contract worth 60,000 euros, approved by the Regional Government, that guarantees the presence of qualified pastors, crucial for shepherding, maintenance of pastures and the supply of hay by the IFCN during periods of food shortages, as well as the availability of hygienic and nutritional supplements to ensure the health of the animals.
The provision of livestock breeds, such as Ribeira dos Boieiros, Chão das Aboboreiras, and Chão das Feiteiras, and areas of pasture in the Forest Perimeter of the Serras do Poiso, and the carrying out of control regulation of invasive and weed species, improvement of pastures, support in the repair of fences, and cleanliness, ensuring the maintenance of essential infrastructures, also supports cattle farmers.
Eduardo Jesus reiterated that shepherding is possible in the Madeira and Porto Santo mountains, provided that certain conditions are met.
“Cattle can graze in the mountains provided they only graze in non-restricted areas. We are not against cattle grazing, but we cannot jeopardise the safety of people or nature conservation.”
So this is the office allowing private companies to take over the island’s walking routes…..
Samantha Gannon
info at madeira-weekly.com
