The Regional Director for Forest Resources stated that the interventions for the improvement of pedestrian trails in São Miguel Forest Perimeter should be concluded by October, thus creating more and better conditions for the use of forest spaces with quality. 

"We have ongoing works that will allow us to improve the existing pedestrian trail network in Mata da Atalhada Forest, next to the Forest Ranger's House in Santo António Nordestinho, and also to create a circular access route to Pico da Vara mountain," stated Anabela Isidoro. The government official added the works awarded to the company Azores Greenmark represent an investment of nearly 18 thousand Euros. 

Anabela Isidoro spoke at the end of a visit to the works in progress, stressing that, when the intervention is completed, the hikers will benefit from greater convenience and safety.

According to the Regional Director, the improvement of these trails, which began in July, will allow "a more direct approach to the redevelopment and management works of forest areas where trails are located, which are certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)."

Currently, the ascent to Pico da Vara mountain is made through the certified PRC7-SMI trail in Algarvia, which implies the return by the same route. 

For this reason, a new circular was been created in conjunction with the Regional Directorate for the Environment to improve the comfort of hikers and reduce the load on the trail. 

Anabela Isidoro also pointed out that the Azores are part of the project for the promotion and conservation of forest resources in Macaronesia (VALCONMAC), which runs until 2020, with an overall investment of around 305 thousand Euros.

VALCONMAC includes, among others, an action for the promotion of natural trails and habitats within the Natura 2000 Network in Macaronesia.