As part of the LIFE IP AZORES NATURA project, coordinated by the Regional Secretariat for the Environment and Climate Action, he São Miguel Environment and Climate Action Service carried out an effort to control and remove Cortaderia selloana (pampas grass) in the Lagoa do Fogo intervention area on the island of São Miguel, to prevent the spread of this invasive species in a natural area of high ecological importance.

Continuous surveillance enabled the detection and elimination of larger specimens, as well as the removal of young plants before they reached maturity, preventing their spread and strengthening the protection of this natural area.

This invasive species poses a significant threat to biodiversity due to its rapid spread and negative impact on ecosystems. In mainland Portugal, it is currently considered one of the greatest threats to biodiversity. In the Azores, its presence has been increasing, especially in natural and landscaped areas, where it continues to be used as an ornamental plant. The island of São Miguel is where the most evident expansion is occurring, stressing the importance of implementing regular control measures.