A month-long programme of hands-on environmental activities is returning to the western Algarve this November, inviting residents, volunteers and visitors to get directly involved in restoring local landscapes.
The Month of Regeneration, now in its second year, will bring together projects across the Barlavento for a series of free activities including tree planting, agroforestry, water retention, landscape restoration, assisted natural regeneration and guided nature walks.
Events will take place throughout November at participating projects near Odiáxere, Pedralva, Barão de São João, Rogil, Burgau, Bensafrim and Aljezur.
The initiative is organised by members of the Ecosystem Regeneration Community of the Barlavento, a collaborative network working to tackle ecosystem degradation through practical local projects.
“Regenerating our local ecosystems is a long-term effort, and it takes people working together to make meaningful progress,” said Richard Rushing, director of Mud Valley Foundation, which is helping facilitate the programme.
“The Month of Regeneration gives people a practical way to get involved, learn from one another, and contribute to the health of the landscapes we all depend on.”
Building on first year
The first Month of Regeneration was held in November 2025 and brought together 320 participants across 10 projects.
According to organisers, the programme included 25 events and six guided agroforestry tours, adding up to more than 750 hours of volunteer work.
Participants collectively planted more than 1,500 trees and perennial plants.
This year’s edition aims to build on that momentum, offering more opportunities to discover the restoration work already taking place across the western Algarve.
Some sessions will focus on practical tasks such as planting trees and developing diverse agroforestry systems, while others will explore methods for improving water retention, encouraging native vegetation to recover and understanding local habitats.
The programme is also intended to create a meeting point for land stewards, environmental practitioners and members of the wider community to share ideas and learn from one another.
No experience needed for most activities
Most events are open to people with no previous experience, although some may have age restrictions.
Participants can join a single activity or take part in several events over the course of the month.
All events are free, but advance registration is required for individual activities.
Mud Valley Foundation, a non-profit organisation focused on education and practical ecosystem restoration in southwestern Portugal, is supporting the network and helping coordinate the programme.
The full schedule and registration details are available at mudvalley.org/november.
You can read more about Mud Valley Foundation and its work here.