DehesAlert is a citizen science project that engages the local community in monitoring and improving the health of dehesas, ecosystems crucial for biodiversity and the regional economy. The project fosters active participation from rural inhabitants in data collection to promote sustainability and conservation. Collaborating with organizations such as CICAP, COVAP, Adroches, and the University of Córdoba, DehesAlert integrates diverse expertise to develop accessible tools for dehesa management.

A dehesa is a traditional agro-sylvo-pastoral system found primarily in Spain and Portugal, characterized by a mix of open woodlands,  combined with pasture and agricultural land. This multifunctional landscape supports livestock grazing, forestry and crop cultivation, while also providing vital ecosystem services such as biodiversity conservation and soil protection. Dehesas are essential for both environmental sustainability and rural economies.

During the recent workshop, Los Pedroches Case Study representative Aleix Antonell-Griera (Adroches) participated, reinforcing the commitment to stakeholder involvement and local engagement.

The workshop also emphasized the role of complementary projects such as FAGESOS, DRYAD, and MONALISA, which focus on sustainable dehesa management and technological innovation. MONALISA’s participation strengthens cross-project collaboration, ensuring a more holistic approach to ecosystem conservation. Together, these initiatives seek to improve dehesa health, foster knowledge-sharing, and bridge the gap between scientific research and community action. A follow-up workshop in January will further involve researchers in advancing these efforts.

Read more in Spanish HERE!