DRAAC promotes recovery and restoration work on the bank of the Ribeira do Testo on Terceira, as part of the LIFE IP CLIMAZ project

May 28, 2024

As part of sub-action C5.3 – Demonstration project of ecosystem-based adaptation to face extreme climate change, the LIFE IP CLIMAZ project, in collaboration with the Azores Participatory Budget and the Regional Directorate for the Environment and Climate Action (DRAAC), began work on the ecological restoration of the Ribeira do Testo, located in the parish of Porto Judeu, in the last quarter of 2023, with a total intervention area of 3.65 hectares.

These works aim at controlling invasive vegetation, planting endemic species and, whenever possible, implementing nature-based solutions, to reinforce the stability of the stream's banks, promoting the adaptation of this ecosystem and increasing the resilience of the watercourse. The target section of the Ribeira do Testo was mostly infested with Elmleaf Blackberry (Rubus ulmifolius), Giant Reed (Arundo donax) and Morning-glory (Ipomoea indica). After the clearing, work began on installing a fence along the stream to prevent future planting from being damaged.

So far, around 2,000 endemic plants have been planted on around 4,000 square metres.

Find out more about this project coordinated by the Regional Secretariat for the Environment and Climate Action at: www.lifeipclimaz.com