The project, funded by Lidl Portugal and developed by WWF Portugal in collaboration with the Institute for Nature Conservation and Forests (ICNF), aims to restore areas affected by Storm Kristin, enhance biodiversity, and improve the preservation and visitation conditions of this natural heritage.
The intervention, which began in May and will extend until May 2027, includes work on removing woody material, restoring trails, controlling invasive species such as acacias and broom, and planting native species. The goal is to restore ecological balance, promote the regeneration of native vegetation, and increase the forest's resilience.
Ângela Morgado, executive director of WWF Portugal, highlighted that the initiative arose from a challenge by Lidl Portugal following Storm Kristin and is part of the national ecological restoration program D-Evolução. She emphasized the importance of cooperation between companies, environmental organizations, public entities, and local communities.
Vanessa Romeu, Head of Corporate Affairs at Lidl Portugal, emphasized the 100,000 Euro investment, stating that its impact goes beyond vegetation recovery, also encompassing the enhancement of a space of great environmental and social importance.
Miguel Domingues, from ICNF, described Monte de São Bartolomeu as a "botanical jewel" with unique natural characteristics and areas of high botanical interest, warning about the threat of invasive species. He suggested that the recovery could lead to a joint application for a local protected area status.
The Mayor of Nazaré Municipality, Serafim António, stressed the environmental, cultural, and emotional significance of the area for the population, recalling the damage caused by Storm Kristin. He associated Monte de São Bartolomeu with the São Brás pilgrimage and mentioned the integration of this investment into a broader strategy for enhancing the upper part of the town, in coordination with the Pederneira Funicular, scheduled for February 2027.
