During the past decade or so there has been a slight increase on the uses of pesticides and fertilizers, on the agricultural sector, mainly by small farmers located on the valleys of the Cova / Paul / Ribeira da Torre Natural Park, Santo Antão Island. This is notably a concern for farmers, park managers, and naturally the association, because of the known effects on human health, loss of biodiversity, and on soil / water contamination.

The main objective of this project is to carry out concrete actions related to an integrated management and control of pests and diseases, aiming to significantly reduce soil contamination, as well as to protectect plant crops and public health. The project will target additionally land degradation issues by construction anti-erosion terraces.

We believe that the project in question presents a different kind of approach for the simple reason that itt will not limit itself to physical execution of activities, but rather implement and guide an "Awareness, Training & Information" program which will provide sound information to targeted groups aiming to change the behaviors and attitudes.

Training and awareness sessions on integrated protection of crops, basic phytosanitary concepts, pests and diseases controls, and proper use of bio pesticides, will be promoted and implemented in partnership with local farmers and the Delegation of the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment.