The Regional Director for Forest Resources stressed today on the island of Graciosa the fact that the Government is providing over 3,908 hectares of uncultivated grazing lands is of "great relevance" to over 1,450 regional farmers

"The role played by these lands is very important, particularly on smaller islands, where, sometimes, the survival of small farms depends on the availability of these areas and the existence of animal grazing services," said Anabela Isidoro, who accompanied the entry of cattle in the pastures located in the areas of Caldeira and Serra Branca.

Uncultivated grazing lands are explored in two different systems in the Azores; the first of which is the Lease Parcel scheme, currently in force on the islands of Santa Maria, São Miguel and Terceira. Under this scheme, land plots are leased to the farmers who apply for this measure.

In turn, the second scheme, the Provision of Animal Grazing Services, is in force on the islands of Pico, São Jorge, Graciosa, Faial and Flores. In certain times of the year, Forest Services receive the cattle from beneficiary farmers, being in charge of the maintenance and management of pastures, upon the payment of monthly rent that is calculated in accordance with the number of animals.

Under this scheme, a total of 365 animals were brought to the Pastures located in Caldeira and Serra Branca. The measure has already benefited 131 farmers on the island of Graciosa, who are also supported by the local Agrarian Development Services.

The establishment of national Forest Regulations in 1901 determined that uncultivated community-owned land must be subject to the management of Forest Services for reforestation, planning and management purposes in accordance with the needs of the population.

In the Azores, during the 50s and 60s, several uncultivated land plots throughout the archipelago were subject to the Forest Regulations in force for the implementation of reforestation projects, improvement of accessibility and the establishment of grazing areas.

This practice, still in use in the present time, plays an important social role in local communities.