Unlike many North American and northern European forests, cork forests are characterized by widely spaced trees, which often leave plains-like grassy areas between them. This makes these forests ideal for other agricultural uses while also allowing for the growth of other indigenous vegetation. These additional agricultural uses can be seen when you take a winding road trip through southern Portugal's Montados.
A Portuguese cork forest shown from a hill above showing wide spaced trees and rolling yellow grass covered hills.
One of the oldest additional agriculture industries in the cork forest is livestock grazing. The vast golden grasslands are ideal for cattle and hog grazing with the wide cork tree canopies providing shade. The manure from the livestock also improves the montados soil for crop production, making this a genuinely symbiotic relationship for both the forest and the animals.
The Montados region is also home to several types of crop production, from small subsistence farming done by the local residents to large fields of eucalyptus and internationally recognized vineyards. Eucalyptus is a newer crop in the region but is highly profitable and fast-growing. Eucalyptus is a popular material for clothing and paper goods. The eucalyptus plant and cork trees can live harmoniously with proper care and planning. However, eucalyptus can only be planted sparingly in the area due to its nature to burn quickly and spread wildfires, leaving lots of space for other types of agriculture.
Types of Agriculture in the Cork Forest
Cork Bark Harvesting
Livestock Grazing
Eucalyptus
Olive Groves
Vineyards
One of the most exciting agricultural industries for cork producers is the vineyards and wineries that have dotted the Iberian Peninsula for centuries. In the last several decades, Portuguese winemakers have started to branch out from the traditional Port wines into more luxury table wines, a testament to their innovative spirit and the potential for growth in the industry. They are now competing directly with regions like Bordeaux, France and Veneto, Italy, inspiring a new era of winemaking in Portugal.
In addition to wine, olive oil has been a staple export from Portugal for decades, and in fact, Portugal proudly holds the position of the 5th largest exporter of olive oil globally. This global recognition of our agricultural products is a testament to the quality and sustainability of Portugal's practices.
The cork forest supports not only a thriving ecosystem but also a variety of industries that foster regional cooperation and sustainability. The cork stoppers grown and produced in the montado and used to bottle Portuguese wine and olive oil are prime examples of how different industries can work together to achieve a common goal. With a focus on collaboration and environmental responsibility, Portugal's wine and olive oil producers serve as a model for the rest of the world. Whether you're a wine connoisseur, an olive oil enthusiast, or someone deeply concerned about the environment we live in, there's no denying the beauty and value of this unique and fruitful industry.