Ovar Dunes Forest Perimeter
The Maceda Forest
History
A forest with more than a century of service
The Ovar dunes pine forest was planted in the early 20th century to anchor the sands, hold back the sea and shield the people of Esmoriz, Cortegaça and Maceda from the winds and from marshland disease. It has been part of the national Forest Regime since 1920. It is at once natural and historical heritage of the municipality of Ovar.
Early 20th centuryThe dune forest is planted to defend the coast and the villages.
2016The ICNF approves the Forest Management Plan foreseeing cuts until 2038.
2021–2022Intensive resin-tapping and the first clear-cuts spark public outcry; the Government suspends felling for 30 days.
2025The Mais Pinhal association is founded.
2026The petition heads to Parliament; a complaint to the European Commission is in preparation.
Biodiversity
A corridor of life between the lagoon and the sea
Dune, heath and pine habitats shelter rare and protected species — some found only on this coast.
What is at risk
Sign the petition
Clear-cuts, invasive species and a landfill 500 metres from the sea.
The current plan foresees cutting 363 hectares by 2038 — but instead of small distributed cuts, we are witnessing continuous clear-cutting of large areas. The clearings fill with acacias, the dune is left exposed, and the sealed landfill at Maceda beach still has no fencing or monitoring.
