Portugal recovers 20,000 truckloads of wood after Storm Kristin

Portugal's Minister of Agriculture and Sea, José Manuel Fernandes, announced that approximately one million cubic meters of wood—equivalent to about 20,000 truckloads—have been removed from areas affected by Storm Kristin. The storm occurred in late January, and cleanup efforts have already covered 20,000 kilometers of territory.

Of the 41 million euros allocated by the government to support 26 affected municipalities, 28 million euros (70%) has already been distributed. Compensation for landowners removing wood is capped at 1,500 euros per hectare, with a maximum limit of 10,000 euros per owner. Funding distribution varies by region, with Leiria receiving the most resources at 9.2 million euros, while Ansião has received approximately 100,000 euros.

Minister Fernandes praised the work of local mayors, the Institute for Nature Conservation and Forests, and private timber operators, though he noted that labor shortages remain a challenge. He urged continued speed in the cleaning and removal of woody material.