In Portugal the project is implemented by ISA-UL, CONSULAI and a network of farmers practicing Mixed Farming and Agroforestry Systems, in particular Montado, a UNESCO protected Mediterranean mixed system, comprising agroforestry activities and extensive livestock production. The system is dominated by scattered oak trees (Quercus suber, Q. ilex, Q. rotundifolia), associated with native pastures, forages, or feed crops. The livestock (beef cattle, sheep, goats and/or pigs) is characterised by low stocking rates, adapted to the poor soils and unfavourable climate conditions of the region.
Farmers joined the MIXED network in Portugal with a motivation of sharing experiences and improving their practices. Climate change and soil degradation, as well as poor crop management practices, have opened the floor to the decline of the Montado, due to weakening of root systems, draught, and the proliferation of pests. A new paradigm is required to adapt to climate change, while ensuring the economic viability and environmental sustainability of the farms.
The Portuguese network aims at restoring and modernising the Montado ecosystem, by working in collaboration with farmers, researchers, policy makers and other stakeholders. The main objective is to find solutions for the future and more sustainable management practices, accommodating the interests of stakeholders at all levels of the value chain.
The Portuguese network integrates 15 farms, with over 20.000 hectares of farmland in the Alentejo region in the south of Portugal.
CONSULAI and ISA-UL are the project managing partners in Portugal.
CONSULAI is an advisory company in the agribusiness and agroforestry sectors. The company provides services based on high quality standards, developing long-term trusting relationships with farmers. As network coordinator, CONSULAI will be the main link between the project and farmers.
ISA-UL is the project´s academic partner and national team leader. ISA-UL is the largest and most qualified school in Agricultural Sciences in Portugal. In the MIXED project, ISA-UL will be responsible for conducting the analysis and viability assessment of the Montado system.
Read more about the network in Portugal
The national stakeholder/policy workshop in Portugal was organized by CONSULAI, as part of the H2020 MIXED project, focusing on financing policies in the agricultural, forestry, and food sectors. The event provided an opportunity for knowledge exchange among advisors regarding the challenges and opportunities within mixed farming and agroforestry systems.
The workshop provided valuable insights into the financing mechanisms available for mixed farming and agroforestry systems under the Strategic Plan for the Common Agricultural Policy (PEPAC) 2023-2027. Key discussions centered on the opportunities for sustainable investments in the agricultural sector, particularly in modernizing farming practices, improving environmental performance, and promoting innovation.
Key Takeaways:
Policy Recommendations:
Looking to the Future:
The workshop concluded with a forward-looking perspective on the development of MiFAS (Mixed Farming and Agroforestry Systems) in Portugal. Participants highlighted the need for continuous dialogue between policymakers and practitioners to refine support mechanisms and address evolving challenges. Future efforts will focus on expanding financial opportunities, fostering innovation, and enhancing the resilience of mixed farming systems within national agricultural policies.
