Rewilding project after wildfires in Portugal

In July 2022, wildfires ravaged our little abandoned Quinta da Chumbaria in the district of Central Portugal, destroying much of the 3 hectares of land that we (Steve and Sarah) have spent the last four years revitalizing through permaculture and regenerative practices. The wildfires were fueled by invasive Eucalyptus trees, leaving our small farm in desperate need of restoration. Year on year, we see more and more extreme weather conditions around the globe. Driven by climate change and it's difficult to know exactly what to do to help our planet.

We have dedicated ourselves to the ethical principles of permaculture, working tirelessly to rejuvenate the tired farmland and promote biodiversity. We have reinstated the vegetable gardens in a drive to become more self-sufficient. Now, we are faced with the daunting task of rebuilding what was lost. The funds raised through this campaign will support the critical efforts to clear land, rewild the landscape, build a wildlife pond, plant native trees, and enhance biodiversity.

By contributing to this campaign, you will directly support the following initiatives:

1. Land Clearance: The funds will be used to clear the charred debris and dead trees left behind by the wildfires, preparing the land for renewal.

2. Rewilding: Through the strategic reintroduction of native flora and fauna, we aim to rewild the farm, allowing nature to reclaim its balance. We will be working with Portuguese Companies, supply organic seeds and local nurseries to supply the trees and plants.

3. Wildlife pond: Construct a 10 by 5 metre pond to support a vast array of aquatic plants, insects and other wildlife. For example, dragonflies, damselflies, bees, hoverflies, amphibians, bats, small mammals and birds often rely on ponds to drink, feed or breed.

4. Planting Native Trees: Native trees are essential for restoring the ecosystem and providing habitats for wildlife. The funds will be used to plant a diverse range of native tree species.

5. Biodiversity Improvement: A portion of the funds will be dedicated to implementing measures to enhance biodiversity, including creating pollinator-friendly habitats and promoting natural pest control.

Join in supporting us as we work to heal the land and improve bio-diversity in Central Portugal. Your contribution will not only help us recover from the wildfires but also contribute to the long-term sustainability and resilience of the local ecosystem.

Much of the work will be carried out by people from our local Portuguese community. There will be an improvement in the environment, and a more natural landscape will act as a much needed fire break between adjacent eucalyptus plantations. Following the local tradition, any excess yield, be it oranges, chestnuts or olives will be shared amongst the local community.

The benefits will be far reaching, both into the community, and into the future.

Thank you for your support in helping us rebuild and continue our commitment to permaculture and ethical land management.

Levels of support:

€5 will help buy a bag of plant seeds for green manure to replenish the soil, or insect attracting plants, for butterflies, bees and other pollinators. Also olive tree saplings.

€10 would enough for a fruit or nut tree, likely to last a couple of hundred years!

€15 pays for an hour of tree felling

€20 is enough for a decent sized citrus tree.

€40 would pay a person one hour with a BIG machine to do land clearance work and dig the wildlife pond.

Timescale:

This spring we hope to start clearing the land, important to reduce further risk of wildfires. During summer, the pond needs to be dug as the water level will be low. In the fall, the pond will get populated with aquatic plants, then tree planting will commence during that winter.

Personal note:

Whether you are in a position to donate to this cause or not we're delighted that you're interested in our project. All the friends and followers, guests and volunteers of Quinta da Chumbaria mean the world to us - we couldn't have got this far without you!

Join us in making a positive impact on our planet! Every contribution, no matter the size, helps us create a better, greener world for all. If you can't donate right now, you can still support us by spreading the word. Let's work together to make a meaningful difference in our environment, without any pressure or guilt. Thank you for being part of this important cause!