Sustainable farming in areas with challenging terrain that have been severely affected by depopulation

The trial conducted by the AGRI-ROVENAT Task Force, supported by the CSIC General Foundation, is progressing successfully on several plots of native vines and olive trees located in the municipality of Quiroga (Lugo), where researchers have assessed how the introduction of sheep that have undergone a process of induced aversion to these crops contributes to the maintenance of biodiversity and natural vegetation cover. In addition, a second method has been tested: the use of a remote-controlled mowing robot, developed by Millasur. Both systems help to preserve the vegetation cover of the agricultural plots, whilst preventing soil erosion – a common problem in sloping areas such as the Ribeira Sacra, where this pilot project is being carried out on land owned by the company Ouro de Quiroga.
The advantages and disadvantages of each of the methods used on the plots of native Galician olive groves and in the vineyard will subsequently be compared.