The storm destroyed a large part of the Ilha Recreation Park, leaving it lifeless and shadeless. We want to replant about a hundred trees and return this iconic space to the community. Help us bring it back to life.
The Island Leisure Park, one of the parish's most beloved spaces, was severely affected by Storm Kristin. More than two-thirds of the trees were destroyed, leaving the park unrecognizable, without shade and devoid of the life that defined it.
This park is not just a green space; it's a symbol of our collective identity. It's where unique events like the Ti Miilha Festival , family gatherings, get-togethers, and outdoor activities take place.
Faced with this devastating scenario, we want to act.
The aim of this campaign is to reforest and revitalize the park by planting around one hundred new trees, restoring its environmental, social and landscape function.
🌱 WHAT ARE WE GOING TO DO?
- Replanting of approximately 100 trees.
- Restoration of tree cover
- Environmental requalification of the space
The intervention will be based on a SAF (Willow, Alder and Ash) model, which is an ecological restoration and landscape management approach, particularly focused on the rehabilitation of riparian galleries (river and stream banks) and conservation areas, frequently mentioned in Integrated Landscape Management Operations (ILMO) projects in Portugal. This system guarantees:
- Greater biodiversity, resilience to extreme weather events, and more sustainable and resilient growth.
- Native and Functional Species: Alder ( Alnus glutinosa ), Ash ( Fraxinus angustifolia ) and Willow ( Salix atrocinerea/salviifolia ) are native trees used to stabilize soils, increase biodiversity and improve water quality.
- Risk Management (Fires and Floods): These systems act as passive barriers to the spread of fires (by replacing flammable species such as maritime pine) and help control river overflows.
Species adapted to the territory will be planted:
- Willows – important for wetlands and water retention.
- Alder trees – improve soil fertility.
- Ash trees – contribute to shade and structure of the ecosystem.
About the author
The Parish Council of Ilha is the entity responsible for the management, maintenance and promotion of the parish's public spaces, assuming an active role in promoting the well-being of the population and local development.
With a focus on community engagement, the Parish Council has been investing in the development of the territory, improving infrastructure, and promoting social, cultural, sporting, and environmental initiatives. This work is carried out in close collaboration with local associations, clubs, and other entities in the parish, fostering a strong and participatory collaborative network.
Among the spaces under its responsibility, the Ilha Leisure Park stands out, an emblematic location that plays a central role in the life of the community. Beyond being a space for socializing and leisure, it is the stage for major events, such as the Timilha Festival, bringing together hundreds of people and contributing to the affirmation of local identity.
The Parish Council of Ilha has demonstrated a continuous commitment to the preservation and enhancement of this space, and this campaign is another step in the effort to recover and rebuild a heritage that belongs to everyone.
Budget and due dates
- April – June 2026 : Fundraising
- June – September 2026 : Land preparation and tree acquisition
- Autumn 2026 (ideal time): Planting the trees
- 2027 onwards : Monitoring and maintenance
The investment required for the restoration of the Island Leisure Park is estimated at around €10,000 , distributed across the various components essential for the reforestation and requalification of the space.
The acquisition of approximately 100 trees , including species such as willows, alders, and ash trees, represents an estimated cost of €4,000 , considering an average value of €40 per unit.
Preparing the land , including clearing, removing debris, leveling, and creating suitable conditions for planting, will cost approximately €1,500 .
To ensure the survival of the trees in the initial phase, it will be necessary to implement an irrigation system , estimated at around €1,000 .
The labor associated with planting operations, site organization, and initial monitoring is estimated at €2,000 .
Additionally, it will be necessary to invest around €1,000 in protective materials , such as stakes and individual tree protectors, which are essential for their proper development.
Finally, approximately €500 is earmarked for communication and signage , including project identification, recognition of sponsors, and on-site environmental awareness campaigns.
This budget will not only allow for the park's restoration, but also ensure that the intervention is sustainable, long-lasting, and prepared to face future climate challenges.
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