On 25–26 November and 2–3 December 2025, a series of events titled “Agroforestry Practices and Healthy Soils: Synergies for Competitive Territories” will take place in the Andalusian region, bringing together researchers, policy actors, technical advisors, producers, and regional stakeholders to exchange knowledge, innovation outcomes, and future perspectives for agroforestry development.
The initiative is organised within the framework of the AF4EU project and supported by the regional authorities of Andalusia, including the Agency for Agrarian and Fisheries Management (AGAPA). The programme highlights how agroforestry systems can contribute to productive, climate-resilient, and sustainable rural landscapes while reinforcing local economies and soil health.
A Two-Day Programme in Lucena: Linking Innovation, Policy, and Agroforestry Practice
The first segment of the event will be held on 2 December 2025 in Lucena, focusing on the intersection between European agricultural policy, agroforestry innovation, and regional land management.
The day begins with an opening session led by José Carlos Álvarez Martín (AGAPA Director), followed by a technical presentation on the impact of the new Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) on territorial management, delivered by María del Carmen García Moreno, Provincial Coordinator of AGAPA in Granada and AF4EU Innovation Broker.
Participants will then explore outcomes from the AF4EU project, including the presentation “Sustainable Agroforestry Systems: Balancing Agriculture and Livestock,” which reflects on how innovative approaches are helping integrate productivity with environmental sustainability.
The morning concludes with an interactive exhibition showcasing tools and methodologies for soil conservation and agroforestry management, followed by a technical visit to local agroforestry initiatives, with on-site demonstrations and knowledge exchange between producers and researchers.
Continuing the Dialogue on 3 December 2025
The second day, held on 3 December 2025, opens with a welcome by Rafael Priego Fernández (Director of the OCA Lucena) and a keynote lecture by Dr. Vidal Barrón (University of Córdoba), who will address soil quality assessment and potential improvements for sustainable land use in agricultural territories.
A session dedicated to the HuMUS Project will follow, focusing on the relationship between agriculture, livestock, soil, and territory. Speakers will present results linked to the Sierra Nevada and Altiplano regions, emphasising collaborative work between academic institutions and regional livestock associations.
The event once again concludes with an interactive exhibition displaying innovative tools for soil and agroforestry management, demonstrating how locally grounded solutions can be scaled to support sustainable rural development.
Strengthening Agroforestry Knowledge Networks in Spain
These Andalusian workshops form part of a wider effort within AF4EU to strengthen agroforestry networks across Europe, supporting regions with locally adapted solutions and collaborative knowledge sharing.
The events highlight:
the growing importance of soil health in productive farming systems,
the value of agroforestry for climate resilience and biodiversity,
opportunities emerging from the CAP reform,
and the key role of regional professionals in transferring knowledge to farmers.
Through field visits, scientific lectures, and interactive demonstrations, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the potential of agroforestry to shape competitive and sustainable territories across Spain.
