The fourth workshop of the Galician RAIN took place on March 21, 2025, at the Casa da Cultura in the Municipality of Mesía.
The event gathered experts, policymakers, among other stakeholders, to discuss the progress of the AF4EU project and explore the challenges and opportunities in agroforestry innovation within the region.
The workshop started with a welcoming session, setting the stage for a day filled with insightful discussions and practical demonstrations. The first round table session focused on operational agroforestry groups, featuring key representatives such as Juan Pedro Romero Trueba from the Ministry of Agriculture (MAPA), and representatives from ASOPORCEL (Iván Rodríguez Paz, presenting ASOPQRCEL and BIO4TRACE), AFG (Francisco Dans del Valle, presenting PLANFORLAB), and FEUGA (Adrián Prol, presenting ASH4SOIL and MultiForest). This session provided a comprehensive overview of the current landscape of agroforestry in Spain, highlighting both opportunities and challenges.
A significant portion of the workshop was dedicated to knowledge-sharing initiatives. The Knowledge Platform (KC) was introduced as a vital resource for staying updated on agroforestry advancements. Additionally, participants were presented with the MOOC (Massive Open Online Course), which offers training in both technical and social competencies essential for the sector.
Following a networking coffee break, attendees engaged in an interactive poster session, where discussions revolved around agroforestry systems and their practical applications. This session fostered collaboration and the exchange of innovative ideas among participants.
The day continued with a demonstration of the Decision Support System (DSS), a tool designed to assist stakeholders in making informed agroforestry decisions. This hands-on session showcased the system’s functionalities and its potential to enhance decision-making processes within the industry.
After a shared lunch, the event concluded with a field visit to Casa Grande de Xanceda, offering participants the opportunity to observe agroforestry practices in action. This visit provided valuable insights into the real-world applications of the concepts discussed throughout the day.
The workshop successfully brought together over thirty stakeholders, fostering a productive dialogue on the future of agroforestry in Galicia. Through collaborative efforts and innovative solutions, the region continues to advance its agroforestry practices, ensuring sustainable agricultural development for the future.
