A group of residents and volunteers has come together to restore the forest of Barão de São João in Lagos following a wildfire that destroyed more than 129 hectares last year.
The initiative, called Mata Viva! (which translates roughly into Living Forest!), brings together around 100 volunteers along with organisations experienced in forest regeneration. Their goal is to boost the recovery of forest areas decimated by the fire, which broke out on September 21, 2025.
The movement has already reached out to the Portuguese Institute for Nature and Forest Conservation (ICNF), the public body responsible for managing the area, to understand the official post-fire recovery plan and explore ways to collaborate. According to organisers, the institute has shown openness to working together.
One of the key proposals is to create a seven-hectare experimental area focused on restoring native biodiversity. The project would include sections along water lines and parts of the Via Algarviana walking trails, including routes near Casa do Guarda and the Pedra do Galo trail. If successful, it could later expand to other parts of the forest.
Other planned interventions include improving water retention in the soil, replanting native species, controlling invasive plants and applying techniques to help young vegetation survive in the early stages of growth.
To involve the wider community, the movement is organising three public events throughout the year. The first, “Escutar a Mata” (Listening to the Forest), is planned for May 24 and will feature family walks, landscape observation, planting activities and a picnic. In the afternoon, the local cultural centre will host interactive sessions, a small market, live music and food.
There will also be a collective exhibition at the Barão Convida space, which anyone can contribute to.
Local authorities and emergency services, including the municipal council, parish council and fire brigade, are also being invited to take part, sharing their experiences and connection to the forest.
Two further events – “Sonhar a Mata” (Dreaming the Forest) on June 27 and 28 and “Viver a Mata” (Living the Forest) in November – will focus on gathering ideas and then putting recovery measures into action on the ground.
The group has already received approval from the ICNF for its planned activities.
Residents interested in getting involved can join the volunteer network, with further initiatives – including creative competitions for a logo and event poster – set to be announced soon.
The initiative is supported by a range of environmental groups and local organisations, including environmental group Almargem, the Algarve Ornithological Association, Lagos Mais Verde (Greener Lagos), Rewilding SW, Restore Nature Collective, Salema Eco Camp, Orla Design and Vinha Velha.
To make it easier for people to get involved, the movement has also created a community WhatsApp group.
