The technical team from the São Miguel Environment and Climate Action Service, which is overseeing the implementation of the LIFE IP AZORES NATURA project at Lagoa do Fogo, recently carried out a monitoring exercise of the plantings carried out in the intervention area.

During this visit, several individual tree protectors were removed from trees that have already shown significant growth, notably native species such as the Azorean Buckthorn (Frangula azorica) and the Azorean Cherry (Prunus azorica). This growth demonstrates the plants’ successful adaptation to local conditions and the positive results of the ongoing ecological restoration work.

It was also observed that the first area where work was carried out is showing significant natural regeneration of native species, demonstrating the success of the measures implemented. These results confirm that, through effective control of invasive alien species and a gradual transition to natural ecosystems, it is possible to promote habitat recovery and enhance the area’s biodiversity.

Despite the progress made, ecological restoration requires ongoing monitoring. Regular monitoring and maintenance of the areas where work has been carried out remain essential to ensuring the long-term success of these measures.

Meanwhile, the team of operational assistants is continuing its work on the ground, monitoring the Japanese Cedar (Cryptomeria japonica) and implementing the remaining measures planned for this intervention area.

With the financial support of the LIFE Programme of the European Union.