HNV-Link Project: Dehesa Agroforestry System in the Iberian Peninsula

The dehesa is a Mediterranean silvopastoral system in the Iberian Peninsula covering 2.5–3 million hectares, characterized by 5–75% tree cover, low fertility soils, and a Mediterranean climate. It provides diverse products and services, including acorns, cork, fuel wood, mushrooms, pasture, crops, game, honey, and livestock. The system supports biodiversity, including the Iberian lynx, and is designated as a Special Area of Conservation. Threats include overgrazing, climate change, soil erosion, tree decay, and declining traditional management. Key conservation measures involve restoring tree density, promoting transhumance, supporting local breeds, and researching pests. The dehesa exemplifies sustainable human-environment co-evolution.