Description

Practice abstract

Sociedade Agrícola Mendes Jorge is a family farm of almost 800 hectares, which relies on the work of grandparents, parents and sons. They are dedicated to beef cattle production, where they have around 150 animals, and they also have a stud farm for Lusitano horses. The farm is divided into two different regions, one in Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo, and the other further south near Vilar Formoso. However, both regions have similar soil and climate conditions. Around 600 hectares are agricultural land, most of it for grazing, and 200 hectares of permanent crops. One of the practices that this farm has implemented in recent years is the reduction of stocking rates in order to promote the sustainable development of the agro silvopastoral complex, particularly the growth of younger holm oaks and oaks, to increase the forage value and improve soil health.
This allows for the regeneration of the forest component of the system, because every year some trees die due to summer droughts. The quality of the pastures also tends to increase, and there is less soil compaction due to the reduced number of animals. The results of this practice have been very positive, contributing to the economic and environmental sustainability of the farm, and, as such, they wish to continue with it.

Context profil