Coimbra region invests in biodiversity with food fields for pollinators

The Intermunicipal Community (CIM) of the Coimbra Region is at the forefront of an initiative to revitalize forest areas into food fields for bees. The project, entitled “BeeFood”, will be presented tomorrow, April 3rd, at 10 am, at Movicarvalho, Lousã (Vale da Ursa Industrial Zone).

“BeeFood”, led by CIM Region of Coimbra, aims to convert areas currently dominated by invasive exotic species and the natural regeneration of Eucalyptus spp into fields that favor the feeding of pollinators, with a special focus on honey bees. This project represents a total investment of 63,242.34 euros, with 50,000 euros financed by the Environmental Fund.

The transformation will be achieved through the reintroduction of indigenous species and the sowing of perennial herbaceous plants. The areas to be intervened cover a total of 13.63 hectares and are located in the municipalities of Lousã, Mealhada, Mira, Miranda do Corvo, Penacova, Pampilhosa da Serra and Soure.

The project’s objectives include not only the creation of food fields for pollinators, but also the reduction of the area occupied by the natural regeneration of Eucalyptus spp, the recovery of areas currently dominated by invasive exotic species, the increase of biodiversity in monoculture regions and promoting landscape transformation, aiming to reduce the risk of rural fires.

The “BeeFood” project is a continuation of CIM Region of Coimbra’s efforts in environmental preservation. This entity has been investing in initiatives to combat invasive exotic species, such as the velutina wasp or water hyacinths, aiming to protect nature and heritage from invasive species, thus promoting native forests and improving ecosystems.