Portugal invests 80 million euros in forest fire prevention equipment

Portugal is investing 80 million euros to acquire more than 3,000 pieces of equipment aimed at forest defense and fire prevention. The investment is divided into two main streams: 50 million euros allocated to inter-municipal communities, municipalities, and forest producer organizations, and 30 million euros dedicated to small and medium-sized enterprises operating in the sector.

Minister of Agriculture and Sea, José Manuel Fernandes, recently participated in ceremonies in Amares and Amarante to deliver tractors to various municipalities. The equipment includes tractors, skidding machines, all-terrain vehicles, and brush cutters. The initiative is part of the Mechanization Program for Fuel Management, funded by the Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR).

Addressing delays in equipment delivery, the Minister cited the lack of immediate stock, the time required for international tenders, and previous litigation that necessitated new bidding processes. He emphasized that prevention is essential, noting that the current fire season has seen a 75% reduction in hectares burned compared to 2025. The Minister also advocated for the use of controlled burns in identified areas to manage forest risks.