Evolving Lower Guadiana_Lourdes Barrios

Evolving Lower Guadiana “A river that unites us”

LOURDES BARRIOS AYALA

Esther Kiras Guadiana River. May 2016

Evolving Lower Guadiana

LBA

Evolving Lower Guadiana LOURDES BARRIOS AYALA

Problem Statement 05 Manifesto 07 Site Study Description 09 Motivations 12 Research Question 13 Lower Guadiana: Introduction to the site

15

Aspirations 65 Regional Strategy 75 - Landscape restoration - Sustainable production - Accessibility Zooming in - Gateway to the landscape - Ecological corridor reinforcement - A productive natural park

105 175 247

Conclusion 313

Interviews 315

Special thanks 317

Problem statement A relevant area with a global issue

The Lower Guadiana has the potential to be an international resource and a relevant link for natural core areas, but it is now in danger. It requires a development plan that integrates the values of the area while responding to needs and threats in a resilient way.

The problem is categorized in three topics:

Ecology Production Accessibility

Manifesto

Alone we can do something, together we can do everything Keep it small, but be big in inspiring Nature heals people. Design heals landscape Ecological living is an increasing trend, as awareness is growing each generation Circularity: everything that goes comes back. Reuse Quality landscape attracts new residents and investment Comfort is important. Idealism vs. Practicality The power consists in combining local and foreign sustainable practices Magic: An authentic experience will mark the whole journey Landscape is nature and culture integrated in one Resiliency: regulate growth while actively protecting It is about how to move the water

Site Study Description Location

Site Study Description A valuable landscape that needs rescue

PARQUE NATURAL GUADIANA 3

Mertola

PORTUGAL

SPAIN 4

LOWER GUADIANA 70KM

Isla Cristina 1

Faro

2

ATLANTIC OCEAN

Border in between countries: complex and diverse

A Natura 2000 area: corridor for protected spaces/ species

Risks of macro-urbanization and landscape degradation

The Lower Guadiana has the potential to be an international resource and a relevant link for natural core areas, but it is now in danger. It requires a development plan that integrates the values of the area while responding to needs and threats in a resilient way.

Site Study Description Relevance mainly soil stabilisation, and biodiversity preservation (i.e. the largest Portuguese population of Chamaelo chamaelon are found in the Monte Gordo nature reserve, closed to the western margin of the Guadiana mouth).

TITLE: Guadiana valley in Portugal LOCATION/Geography:

The Guadiana is a national park located in southern Portugal CONSERVATION IMPORTANCE The Guadiana basin and Southern Portugal, harbours extensive semi-natural sylvopastoral woodlands -known as “ montados” in Portugal and “Dehesas” in Spain-, which have historically represented very efficient and rational multipurpose management systems, adapted to adverse environmental conditions imposed by low quality soils and harsh climate.

The Guadiana basin boasts more than 220 breeding vertebrates. The woodlands constitute important wintering enclaves for thousands of cranes (Grus grus), and breeding areas for hundreds of white storks (Ciconia ciconia) and the endangered black stork (Ciconia nigra). The south-western Iberian genuine sylvopastoral landscapes are also fundamental for the

© WWF-Canon / Fritz VOLLMAR

preservation of some of the most endangered species in Europe, the Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus), the Imperial eagle (Aquila heliaca), and the great bustard (Otis tarda).

The coastal stone pine woodlands (Pinus pinea), associated to the sand dunes, are very valuable ecosystems from both socio-economic - the sustainable management of pine nut collection is an important income-generating activity for rural economies - and conservation point of view, SIM/FORESTS FOR LIFE/WWF INTERNATIONAL

- 1 -

PROBLEM/THREAT: Major land use change has shaped Mediterranean forest cover in the last 50 years. Large scale afforestation for timber and pulpwood have been responsible for transforming areas of natural and semi-natural woodlands. At the same time incentives put in place by the EU Common Agriculture Policy (CAP) to convert marginal agricultural lands into woodlands, have not actually encouraged appropriate forest restoration. While the EU has poured up to Euro 1.27 billion between 1993 and 1997 into afforestation, important natural habitats of forests, scrubs and grasslands are still being destroyed.

The southern half of the Iberian Peninsula includes the most fragile areas classified as undergoing a desertification process, with high erosion risk, and a direct cost on the environment, which in Spain is estimated of about 280 million Euro per year. This is a typical example of an environmental degradation process leading to, or exasperating serious social problems, such as poverty and widespread emigration, affecting the livelihood of several million people in rural and urban areas of many Mediterranean countries.

WWF's Action Based on an initial review of policies and actors related to restoration, WWF has identified the need to work at various levels in the Mediterranean basin. One set of interventions will focus on lobbying for a change in legislation at the EU level. This will target more specifically the afforestation measures promoted through the CAP. At the same time in both Morocco and Portugal, WWF will work with local communities to identify and value forest goods and services.

Specific activities will include: 1. Identifying and preparing case studies on good restoration practices, showing their social, economic, and environmental benefits.

2. Supporting field restoration work in pilot sites within the Southern Portugal Green Belt, and develop and test the methodology 3. Preparing training tool kits on restoration and awareness material, and organise a training course for WWF Mediterranean NOs and selected partners 4. Supporting lobby actions to the EU and the Portuguese and Spanish national/regional governments to introduce adequate restoration guidelines.

24/01/03

Motivations

Environmental degradation + social deterioration Due to abusive use of land and water sources next to droughts and climate change, which brings a regional urgent need of generating biodiversity, protect soil and improve quality and quantity of water.

Due to aging of population, urban migration, which brings a need of alternative land uses and sustainable livelihoods that honour the past but embrace the future.

Challenging design opportunity A place that is full of contrasts: hilly-river-coast landscape, small scale traditional villages, adjacency to an international tourist coast with valuable natural areas, remaining historical cultural elements, a city (MĂŠrtola) that lays in the middle of a natural park, dramatic variations in water level, climate and users throughout the year, a river that belongs to two countries.

Fascination For remote undeveloped areas where nature and culture need to be enhanced and protected in one generation, where change is in the hands of the community, but also the reward (measured in education, quality of life and future opportunities)

Research question

Can I regenerate the Lower Guadiana River Valley,

- WATER - BIODIVERSITY - SOCIO-ECONOMY

Implementing sustainable design and ecotourism as development strategy?

Lower Guadiana Introduction to the site

Economy vs. Landscape Main threats and weaknesses (plus its causes and derived issues) Old /Not instructed local population Overcoming high profit agro-industrial activities

Main opportunities and strengths Super Low Density = Ultra Preserved Nature Rich heritage of different times and cultures along the river

Andalucia + Algarve + Alentejo = EuroAAA

Lower Guadiana Introduction to the site

MÉRTOLA

80KM

ATLANTIC OCEAN

Guadiana estuary

Lower Guadiana Cross-border collaboration

Shared topics

Tourism

Guadiana River

Communication Network

Rural Development Collaboration

Shared Issues

Low quality soils

Low precipitations

Lower Guadiana Cross-border collaboration

Differences

Portugal

Spain

Dryland Farming. Cereals. Olives

Forest Areas. River valleys. Urban areas

Shared activities

Cattle activity in meadows and pastures

Lower Guadiana Landscape System

Existing Conditions Summer droughts and decreasing water table Increasing land infertility, loss of biomass and biodiversity

Causes Deforestation, overgrazing and mono-cultures have hardened the soil and interrupt water cycle Rainwater cannot infiltrate the soil anymore. It runs off, causing erosion, loss of topsoil, decreasing soil humidity.

Results Traditional agriculture becomes too risky, farmers give up their land No precondition for food security and biodiversity

Lower Guadiana Confluence of ecosystems: fluvial + marine + hinterland

C

Sea level rise soil salinazation

Waves

Moon or tides B

Salinization salty water comes in

causes waves

A

moon tide sealevel rise

Storm surge

Lower Guadiana Topographic valley

C) 200m wide

B) 400m wide

A) 800m wide

Lower Guadiana Landscape structure: collection of schemes

Esther Kiras Guadiana River. May 2016

Daily tide fluctuation

Evolving Lower Guadiana

1.5 2M

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Esther Kiras Pulo do Lobo, MĂŠrtola. May 2016

Evolving Lower Guadiana

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Lower Guadiana Protected areas

Reserva Natural del Sapal de Castro e Vila Real de St. Antonio

3

1

Paraje Natural Marismas Isla Cristina – Andalucia PORTUGAL

SPAIN 4

2

Parque Natural do Vale do Guadiana – Alentejo

1

2 3

Natura 2000 Network

4

The lower Guadiana connects Natura 2000 areas in both countries. Big biological productivity next to the coast in the Marismas, were thousands of aquatic birds live and visit every year connected by a buffer area next to the river that goes up to the Parque Natural do Vale do Guadiana, with great biodiversity habitats.

Lower Guadiana Protected areas VALE DO GUADIANA

ANDEVALO

MARISMAS CASTRO MARIM

MARISMAS ISLA CRISTINA

Lower Guadiana Protected areas

Iberian Lynx

Imperial eagle

Wild rabbit

Marismas Castro Marim

Parque Natural Vale do Guadiana

Lower Guadiana Extreme climate conditions

High and very high vulnerability to desertification Portugal susceptibility map

Climate change predictable impacts Drought - reduction of 20% in precipitation Water scarcity - reduction of 40% of main the main tree (Cork Oak) Increased temperatures and heat waves - 4 to 8 degrees in the max. Temperatures / summer

Lower Guadiana Extreme climate conditions

Deadly Forest fires Vs. High financial profitability

Risks of high water consumption Soil erosion Bet on a monoculture forest with little biodiversity potential (disappearance of fauna) Fires more difficult to control (“gasoline tree�) - burns fast, resistant to fire Vs. Remaining Cork Oak forests: richest in Portugal, providing habitats for the endangered Iberian lynx, Bonelli eagle, as well as many endemic plant species

Lower Guadiana Water system in conflict

Macrourbanization projects: housing, hotels, golf courts

Agriculture - urbanization pollution PORTUGAL

SPAIN

Mining pollution

Industrial pollution

Existing threats The Lower Guadiana River valley is now in danger because of increasing urbanization and planning that runs against preservation of heritage and habitats. Pollution coming from different sources also affects the quality of the water. Climate change, water shortage and increasing droughts are affecting the biodiversity of the area.

Lower Guadiana Water system in conflict

Underground water system

LESS RAIN

less less rain rain

OVEREXPLOITED AQUIFER 23

less less volume volume

less less aquifer aquifer level level

Dams and reservoirs

LESS RAIN = LESS FREQUENT DISCHARGES DECREASING WATER LEVEL

POOR QUALITY DOWNSTREAM

Lower Guadiana Current land-uses: water-demanding

eucalyptus

agriculture

golfcourse golfcourse

Lower Guadiana Current land-uses: water-demanding

STRAWBERRY - RED GOLD

GOLF TOURISM

DAMS

222HM3 Increasing water demand. 200HM3 evaporated in a year (3million people year supply)

Lower Guadiana Current land-uses: water-polluting

Classified by source of non-treated discharge Urban wastewater and solid waste - no treatment plants Industries - production of olive oil, food processing plants, tanneries, wood and cork oak, Agriculture and Cattle - high nitrate pollution risk Mining operations - chromium, iron, pesticides. Moderate and high ecological risk areas

Classified by flow Loads arrive continuously, uniform flow, independent of run-off - Urban wastewater Seasonal loads, independent of run-off - Industries (olive oil refineries) Run-off loads - Diffuse pollution

Lower Guadiana Current land-uses: water-polluting

Evolving Lower Guadiana

Historical importance as communication axis

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Lower Guadiana The Coast: Economy and Accessibility

Severe visual impact on natural environment

Increased vehicular traffic along the coastal region, with detrimental effect

Coastal infrastructure The International Bridge makes the only connection in between the two countries

Lower Guadiana The Coast: Economy and Accessibility

Lower Guadiana The Coast: Economy and Accessibility

SERVICES

AGRICULTURE

INDUSTRY

50%

32%

18%

Lourdes Barrios Ayala Foz de Odeleite, Portugal. Sept 2017

Evolving Lower Guadiana

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Lower Guadiana Hinterland: Economy and Accessibility

Mixed urban structure Coast

Hinterland

Urban

Rural

+ Population

- Population

+ Opportunities

+ Challenges

Growth in “jumps�

Disconnection with bigger areas

Castro Marim, Portugal

Foz de Odeleite, Portugal

Lower Guadiana Economy and Accessibility

Land-use: past to present

Traditionally

1980’s - Crisis

Latest

Traditional fishing

Macro-urbanizations

New Technologies

Shell-fishing

Golf Courts

Modern Agriculture

Aquaculture

Coastline

Citruses / Strawberries

Salt mining

New Mining

Lower Guadiana Economy and Accessibility

Aquaculture

Fishing in the Guadiana has always been an activity exclusively for the subsistence of the riverine populations of the Guadiana basin. The origin of this activity, the knowledge of which is transmitted from parents to children,go back to the Paleolithic.

Lower Guadiana Heritage and Tourism

Natural

Historical

Intangible Unique traditions of this region that have been preserved by the local or native inhabitants

Lower Guadiana Heritage and Tourism

Lower Guadiana Heritage and Tourism

Landscape Values

Diversity

Symbolic strength

Well preserved river valley

Identity value

Lower Guadiana Heritage and Tourism

Artisan Production

Iberian Ham

Wine

Oil

Cheese

Honey

Quality Meat

Lower Guadiana Heritage and Tourism

Identity and Traditions

Meadow activities

Salt Activities

Mills

Mining

Crafts

Crops/Gastronomy

Esther Kiras Guerreiros do Rio, Portugal. May 2016

Evolving Lower Guadiana

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Lower Guadiana Heritage and Tourism

Linking traditional and modern practices through ecotourism

Forest Management and Exploitation Agro-livestock Farms Traditional Farming

Biomass, cellulose, food

Aquaculture Operations Rural

Artisan Fishing and Fresh Market Mining

Extractive / Reuse

Renewable Energies Renewable cycles Water Collection and Treatment Environmental Services

Maintenance of resources

Industries Urban

Real State and Construction Tourist Services

48.3% Employment

Lower Guadiana Heritage and Tourism

Tourism complementary activities Coast

Hinterland

Adding: Sustainable

Tourism + Retail

Small Initiatives

Foreign investment

Sun

Recreation

Cultural exchange

Beach

Landscape Interest Routes

Global trend -awareness

Golf

Nature / History / Culture

Active role of tourist

Lower Guadiana Heritage and Tourism

Why ecotourism?

Current practices of tourism put natural habitats in danger too often. Degradation of habitats and landscapes, impoverishment of natural processes and increasing generation of waste and pollution are only some examples of the consequences of inappropriate mass tourism. Ecotourism comes as a way to “rethink culture, education and tourism� (Hetzer, 1965).

Looking at how the ecotourism concept has evolved and how it is currently practiced, we realize that the principles that guide it, must be supported by a sustainable approach and design that makes the project successful in every way: social, cultural, ecological, economical. These principles are later translated into profits and employment benefits, stabilizing and increasing the economy of an undeveloped area while protecting it.

Landscape architecture and architecture as design professional fields are able to address the principles of ecotourism and materialize them in a sustainable project. Sustainable from all perspectives. Landscape architects deal with economic activities, cultural precedents, social and quality of life, next to ecological and climate issues.

If it is possible to create a sustainable model to solve the existing conflict in between landscape architecture and ecotourism; the result would be a real alternative for a healthy living for host communities, but also a better and unique experience for visitors. The main goal is that society integration goes in hand with the nature preservation. The main challenge is that buildings are efficient enough to mitigate their impact on the environment, and attentive in their use of materials, energy and result in a comfortable, efficient space.

My interest is to prove ecotourism as an strategy to bring back the balance to the area, where river, biodiversity and socioeconomic growth go in hand. Looking for design opportunities and measures of different scales, that result in an integrated rehabilitation of the river valley.

Lower Guadiana Heritage and Tourism

Relevant Ecotourism Precedents: VIDA PURA, Odeceixe, Portugal

5 elements approach Elements of self sustainability

Water

Energy

Sort, distribution, domestic, collection, storage, biodiversity

Sun, wind, micro hydro-generator, co2 emissions neutral

Food production

Waste treatment and links to local community

Protein (animals), vitamins (garden trees)

Shelter Private, business, animals. Local materials

Biological treatment of water and waste, recycling, compost Interacting and trading with local community

Lower Guadiana Heritage and Tourism

Relevant Ecotourism Precedents: TAMERA, Colos, Portugal

2007

2011

The project was founded in Germany in 1978. In 1995 it moved to Portugal. Today 170 people live and work on a property of 330 acres. The first founding thought was to develop a non-violent life model for human being, animal and nature.

The ecological and technological research issues of Tamera includes the implementation of a retention landscape for the healing of water and nature, as well as a model for regional self-sufficiency in energy and food.

Regenerative basis for autonomous water supply, for the production of healthy food, the regeneration of topsoil, pasture and forest, and greater diversity of species. The new cultural impulse which is starting to emerge could enable many people to return to the countryside or to create urban ecosystems in the cities.

ACTIONS  4 larger Retention spaces >0.5 ha  19 smaller retention spaces <0.5ha  4 irrigation ponds  1.5 ha terraces with irrigation  >2000 fruit trees & bushes planted  40 ha afforestation

 Vegetable seed autonomy  20 ha managed grazing  3 ha cereals  3 ha olive and fruit orchards  2 ha eucalyptus forest in transition  30 ha older cork oak forest in restoration to natural forest ecosystem

On the terraces around the lakes we harvest: 3 kg / m2 of fruits and vegetables per year.

Lourdes Barrios Ayala Foz de Odeleite, Portugal. Sept 2017

Ecotourism: joining local and foreign forces in search for a better quality

Evolving Lower Guadiana

of life

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Evolving Lower Guadiana Aspirations

1 Rehabilitate / Preserve this cultural and natural landscape

2 Boost the economy using available cultural, natural and social capital

3 Improve the experience and reconnect people - landscape

Lower Guadiana Aspirations

1 Border

Clear International Protected Natural Entity

River as centre of relations

River as Longitudinal

Land development shared by Connection for economical, the two countries mixed and zone areas

Lower Guadiana Aspirations

2 River: landscape and biodiversity

Reconnect water life cycle For effects of climate change, desertification mitigation, biodiversity enhancement

Reintroduction of native species (fire-fighting trees)

Enhance of ecosystem balance

Cork Oak, Olive

Human, fauna, flora, landscape Waste

Lower Guadiana Aspirations

3 Architecture and Heritage

Reuse and restoration of vacant structures

Preserve rural identity of the area

Introduction of sustainable construction local materials

Preservation of unique identity

Regulate growth

Clay, Hemp, Straw

Lower Guadiana Aspirations

4 Economy and Tourism

Ecotourism zone

Public accessibility

Branding the landscape

Bring to inland the tourism of the coast but in a sustainable way

Enhancement of green and River as main leisure and public transport connectivity adventure resource. Experinetworks ence 1to1 with the river

Lower Guadiana Aspirations

5 People

Self sustainable Region

Integrated Social Capital

5 elements of sustainability: water, food, shelter, energy, waste

Combination of Foreign investment Local practices Tourism

Development from the Landscape Creation of jobs that create awareness, heal the landscape and are profitable at the same time

Lourdes Barrios Ayala Foz de Odeleite, Portugal. Sept, 2016

Evolving Lower Guadiana

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;Look deep into nature, and then bett

Albert Einstein

n you will understand everything ter.â&#x20AC;?

Esther Kiras Pulo do Lobo, MĂŠrtola. May 2016

Evolving Lower Guadiana

_Environmental _Social _Economical

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Evolving Lower Guadiana Regional Strategy: Layered Approach

01 REGENERATE LANDSCAPE ECOLOGY

Natural balance: Restoring original habitats while creating a healthy and supportive landscape 02 PROMOTE SUSTAINABLE PRODUCTION

Financial balance: Funds to protect nature, keep people in the landscape 03 PROVIDE ACCESSIBILITY

Human-landscape relation balance: Making new and old resources accessible

It is not enough to be sustainable, regeneration is needed to restore this balance of the landscape!

Evolving Lower Guadiana An overview of the strategy Existing

Proposal

+

=

Future

Regenerating landscape ecology

Promoting sustainable production

Providing green accessibility

Evolving Lower Guadiana Existing Conditions: Ecology

Climate conditions

Desertification risk

Fire risk

Occupation

Irrigation agriculture

GOlf tourism

Natural structure

Soil Salinisation

Natura 2000 Cork oak network Forest

Pine forest

Iberian Lynx habitat

Available space

WATER SYSTEM

Pollution sources

agrosylvopas- Improductive toral system land

Trasformable area

Evolving Lower Guadiana Proposal: Regenerating Landscape Ecology

The landscape restoration is achieved combining blue and green measures.

In matters of water system: diversification of water sources, next to efficient management, treatment and reuse.

For enhancement of the green structure: Restoration of original habitats, reforestation and reinforcement of ecological connections for endangered species extending the Natura 2000 area.

A healthy and protected landscape

Evolving Lower Guadiana Proposal: Regenerating Landscape Ecology

Restoring Water System

Diversifying/naturalizing water sources

Reinforcing Ecological Structure

Reforestation

Wastewater treatment

Sustainable human occupation

Reinforcement ecological corridors

Extension of Natura 2000 area

Evolving Lower Guadiana Existing Conditions: Land-use Landscape conditions

Soil

Topography

Occupation

Irrigation agriculture

Orange Fields

Flood

Wind Speed

Future dams

Available space

Traditional salt mines

Small scale agriculture

agrosylvopastoral system

Unproductive land

Transformable area

Evolving Lower Guadiana Proposal: Sustainable Production

The proposal for land-use and production re-activates/enhances traditional activities like salt extraction and agro-sylvo-pastoral systems, in combination with new layers like a sustainable horticulture area along the coast and an extension of the renewable energy landscape towards Portugal which is already happening at the moment.

A landscape that is financially balanced

Evolving Lower Guadiana Proposal: Sustainable Production

Reactivating Traditional Systems

Active traditional salt mining

Expanding Sustainable Practices

New Horticulture strip

Agro-sylvo-pastoral system

Active cereal steppes

Sustainable energy

Water retention farms

Evolving Lower Guadiana Existing Conditions: Accessibility

Connections

bridges

Services

Mobility

Harbors

Occupation

Natural Parks

Hiking routes

Visual basin

Values

Heritage

Accommodation

Evolving Lower Guadiana Proposal: Green Accessibility and Ecotourism

The accessibility layer brings back the Guadiana River as main communication axis from coast to hinterland, and introduces a series of slow traffic structures that connect existing and new values. But also stimulates the proper infrastructure in between, next to accommodation, transport and other services.

Each route needs a different level of intervention but also connects or allows access to different layer of the landscape, In the case of the coastal route, the improvement if the public spaces in matters of accessibility includes the redistribution of the space, eliminating car parking and introducing continuous biking lane that goes along the coast and then goes up to the countryside.

Alternative routes are proposed, _Through existing, traditional dry-land agriculture with olive trees, _But also through proposed land-uses like the agriculture next to the coast, _The creation of an official bike route from Portugal to Spain would also explore remaining mining heritage, _Small scale infrastructure along the river and private collaboration is also encouraged in small river-countryside routes Using and connecting private and public existing roads, next to proper signalization and new official routes it is possible to make this landscape structure connected again: coast, hinterland and river valley.

An Accessible Landscape

Evolving Lower Guadiana Proposal: Green Accessibility and Ecotourism

New official routes that connect private and public roads to make every corner of the landscape accessible in slow traffic transport

Guadiana Coast

Different levels of intervention are needed from coast to countryside.

Biking international

Found in the countryside

Horticulture journey

River to landscape

Ecotourism services

Esther Kiras Pulo do Lobo, MĂŠrtola. May 2016

Evolving Lower Guadiana

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Evolving Lower Guadiana Proposal: Green Accessibility and Ecotourism

DIC NOV

JAN

OCT

FEB

SEPT

MAR

AUG APR

JUL JUN MAY

Easy and complete accessibility to its enriching natural and cultural experiences during the whole year

Lourdes Barrios Ayala Foz de Odeleite, Portugal. Sept, 2017

Branding the landscape Reinforcing relation quality landscape/product/people

Evolving Lower Guadiana

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Evolving Lower Guadiana Regional Scale Strategy

Using existing resources and the force of nature to make a resilient landscape

Lourdes Barrios Ayala Vila Real de Santo Antonio, Portugal. Feb 2018

Evolving Lower Guadiana

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Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 1: A Gateway to the Landscape

A GATEWAY TO THE LANDSCAPE Green infrastructure, connection and activation of existing values _Wetland Park

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 1: A Gateway to the Landscape. Existing Conditions

Existing Conditions ECOLOGY

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 1: A Gateway to the Landscape. Existing Conditions

The current situation shows an unbalance in the hydrological cycle, which affects availability of rain hinterland.

- There is a sequence of protected spaces: salty marshlands, but the river valley is not completely protected, - Waterways have been channelled, the underground water table is continuously decreasing and wastewater is not properly treated before discharge in the larger river system.

- Sea level rise and insufficient drainage is provoking salinisation of the soil - Native forest has almost disappeared; only some fragments remain,

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 1: A Gateway to the Landscape. Existing Conditions

Lourdes Barrios Ayala Marismas Castro Marim, Portugal. Feb 2018

Evolving Lower Guadiana

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Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 1: A Gateway to the Landscape. Existing Conditions

Existing Conditions PRODUCTION

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 1: A Gateway to the Landscape. Existing Conditions

- The original natural features of this valley have been surrounded and substituted by unsustainable land uses like irrigation agriculture, macro-urbanizations and golf tourism.

- At the same time, traditional salt mining is almost inactive, which puts a fragile ecosystem that depends on it, in danger.

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 1: A Gateway to the Landscape. Existing Conditions

Lourdes Barrios Ayala Marismas Isla Cristina, Spain. Feb 2018

Evolving Lower Guadiana

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Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 1: A Gateway to the Landscape. Existing Conditions

Existing Conditions ACCESSIBILITY

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 1: A Gateway to the Landscape. Existing Conditions

- The infrastructure is mainly vehicular, public transport services and slow traffic routes are mostly inadequate/discontinuous.

- There is one train line that doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t cross the border but goes next to the Algarve coast.

- Existing routes and heritage are mostly isolated in the landscape, river infrastructure is incomplete and undeveloped

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 1: A Gateway to the Landscape. Existing Conditions

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 1: A Gateway to the Landscape. Existing Conditions

Lourdes Barrios Ayala Vila Real de Santo Antonio, Portugal. Feb 2018

Evolving Lower Guadiana

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Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 1: A Gateway to the Landscape. Middle Scale Proposal

Proposal ECOLOGY

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 1: A Gateway to the Landscape. Middle Scale Proposal

A restoration of the hydrological cycle along the coast: - Improvement of coastal drainage through naturalization of waterways and proper water treatment.

- The restoration of the forest cord, with appropriate species that will improve soil infiltration especially in high areas of the topography.

- Urban environment and existing tourism sum up to the initiative with retrofit sustainable architecture and landscape management measures.

- An extension of the Natura 2000 area: this will also protect the river valley from being occupied by unsuitable land uses plus

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 1: A Gateway to the Landscape. Middle Scale Proposal

1

3 - 25

grass

shrubs

1

4

2

25 - 100

100 - 200

pine

200 +

pine + young oak

oak

4

5

3

improvement soil infiltration

deeprooted vegetation

1

Infiltration improvement in higher areas

improve coastal drainage

river

wetland

spring

Naturalization waterways 2

wastewater treatment

influent

effluent main bed

Efficient management of existing uses

Esther Kiras Ayamonte, Spain. May 2016

Evolving Lower Guadiana

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Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 1: A Gateway to the Landscape. Middle Scale Proposal

Proposal PRODUCTION

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 1: A Gateway to the Landscape. Middle Scale Proposal

- The abundance of vegetation plus the reactivation of traditional salt mining will reinforce the region as a natural core area.

- The agricultural productivity will also be enhanced with an efficient water management and climate adaptive crops.

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 1: A Gateway to the Landscape. Middle Scale Proposal

1

Activate salines

4

permaculture principles terraces

potato / raddish / carrot

A

river bed

hugeculture

productiv

stons store heat - microclimate

Reincorporate traditional production practices mulch

L1

R

R

F

crop rotation

biodiveri

B F

L2

L2

L1

L2

L1

F

L2

F

L1

R

R

C

4

Crop rotation

permaculture principles

Terraces

L1 - vegetables R - root vegetables L2 - leaf vegetables F - fruit

tourism

Lourdes Barrios Ayala Vila Real de Santo Antonio, Portugal. Feb 2018

Evolving Lower Guadiana

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Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 1: A Gateway to the Landscape. Middle Scale Proposal

Proposal ACCESSIBILITY

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 1: A Gateway to the Landscape. Middle Scale Proposal

- The car stops at the coast where several points of services and public transport/slow traffic allow you to connect to river and landscape - The villages are again strongly related to the river through a renovated border, where public transport, slow traffic routes and water infrastructure converge to open a gate to the landscape.

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 1: A Gateway to the Landscape. Middle Scale Proposal

Re-established river border relationship

The car stops at the coast

Lourdes Barrios Ayala Vila Real de Santo Antonio, Portugal. Feb 2018

Evolving Lower Guadiana

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Castro Marim

Ayamonte

Castro Marim Castro Marim 100 Castro Marim

Ayamonte Ayamonte 100 Ayamonte

100 Castro 0

Marim

100

100 0

800 mtr

0 100 0 100 0

0 100 0

800 mtr

100 0

dam

irrigation agriculture

village runoff

golf course

dam

village runoff

Guadiana river

golf course

dam

village runoff

Guadiana river

golf course

dam

irrigation agriculture irrigation agriculture irrigation agriculture

Guadiana river

village runoff

Guadiana river

irrigation agriculture

village runoff

sustainable management sustainable management sustainable management

sustainable agriculture sustainable agriculture sustainable agriculture

green blue village green blue village green blue village

sustainable management

sustainable agriculture

green blue village

inactive saltmines

vacant land

ecotourism education permacultureal ground

active ecosystem

reinforced forest

ecotourism education permacultureal ground ecotourism education permacultureal groundecotourism education permacultureal ground

active ecosystem active ecosystem active ecosystem

reinforced forest reinforced forest reinforced forest

ecotourism education permacultureal ground

active ecosystem

reinforced forest

sea level rise sea level rise

Guadiana river

sea level rise

100 0

100 0

100

100

0 100

0 100

0

green blue village

vacant land

vacant land

100

vacant land

100 0

Guadiana river 0

vacant land

0

100 0

sustainable agriculture

inactive saltmines inactive saltmines inactive saltmines inactive saltmines

0

800 mtr

100

sustainable management

sea level rise

sea level rise

800 mtr

0

dam

100

800 mtr

golf course

golf course

Ayamonte

water treatment Guadiana river Guadiana river water treatment Guadiana river water treatment water treatment Guadiana river

0

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 1: A Gateway to the Landscape. Design Proposal.

The proposal consists in a vibrant river border with three components that work together and combine the three layers of the regional strategy.

An overall accessibility improvement connects the lighthouse, school, sports area and center to this new hub that serves as a transition in the way to the beach and plugs in forest and river border to the public space.

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 1: A Gateway to the Landscape. Design Proposal

1.1 Purifying water

1.2 economic development connected to water accessibility

1.3 Public accessibility of water shores

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 1: A Gateway to the Landscape. Design Proposal

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 1: A Gateway to the Landscape. Design Proposal

Public space optimization: redistribution of car parking and provision of bike lanes

Lourdes Barrios Ayala Vila Real de Santo Antonio, Portugal. Feb 2018

Evolving Lower Guadiana

LBA

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 1: A Gateway to the Landscape. Design Proposal. Wetland Park

Currently, the relation of the village with the river is not coherently developed: - Wastewater is discharged in the Guadiana river without proper treatment; the river border is mostly incomplete hard-scape and lacking infrastructure services, the accessibility is compromised by private activities/uses; - Landmarks and heritage are disconnected and are not evident for the visitor: the salt marshlands, the pine forest, the lighthouse are disconnected from the centre of the village, in matters of transport, signalization and design of the public space.

- Biodiversity areas and valuable ecological areas are present. Wetlands of Castro Marim and Isla Cristina have national and international relevance as core nature areas. Places of reproduction, food supply and habitat of several species of birds. This also means that they have a high tourist and educational value.

- It is also not very clear how to experience or learn about traditional activities like fishing or horticulture.

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 1: A Gateway to the Landscape. Design Proposal. Wetland Park Existing Conditions

VRS Antonio Train station

Guadiana harbour

Camping Area

Old train tracks

Abandoned structures

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 1: A Gateway to the Landscape. Design Proposal. Wetland Park Valuable Species

REPRODUCTION

Blacked gull

Flamingo

Western Jackdaw

Sternidae

Audouinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gull

European Herring Gull

FOOD SUPPLY

HABITAT

Eurasian Magpie

Kentish Plover

Ardeidae

Eurasian Spoonbill

Little Tern

Common Starling

Esther Kiras Guerreiros do Rio, Portugal. May 2016

Evolving Lower Guadiana

LBA

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 1: A Gateway to the Landscape. Design Proposal. Wetland Park

The design proposes a new public space that accommodates constructed wetlands and green areas that provide wastewater management and enhancement of biodiversity.

The park combines a land drainage strategy with the natural inter-tidal system. Constructed wetlands collect rainwater and clean it before it overflows to the Guadiana River. A public space that decrease in heights into the water, plays with the tide and makes evident its fluctuation during the day.

The tree lines coming from the city are completed and densified into a forest area along the park that continues towards the train station. Native species are planted and helophyte plants are used in the park for the treatment of the water Different habitats are created as transition and complement of dunes and marshlands. Evoking the natural state of the river border, and as a stepping stone for birds who live and travel around the area. The wetlands are also habitat for insects and invertebrates

Water Treatment System

A public space that cleans the water and reinforces the ecological value of the area

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 1: A Gateway to the Landscape. Design Proposal. Wetland Park Chamaeleonidae Pino piĂąonero

Retama monosperma

Alfarrobeira

Charadrius alexandrinus

Platalea leucorodia Amendoeira

Spartina alterniflora

Sterna albifrons Cistus ladanifer

Biodiversity Enhancement Continuation of Existing River Boulevard

Bike Rental and Parking Services

Village Accessibility Improvement

A forest that is also a camping area Safe Slow Traffic Connection

Safe Connection to Guadiana Harbour Ecotourism Center: Services and Education Camping Services Tidal Public Space

Accessibility Improvement

Slow Traffic Infrastructure towards the landscape Remainin Train Tracks as Pathways

A Park that cleans the water

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 1: A Gateway to the Landscape. Design Proposal. Wetland Park

Safe slow traffic Connection to train station

Renovated Camping Area + water access

Constructed wetlands

Use of existing structures

Harbour improvement

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 1: A Gateway to the Landscape. Design Proposal. Wetland Park

New forest

Waste water treatment

Connection to trai

in station

Use of existing structures

Water access

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 1: A Gateway to the Landscape. Design Proposal. Wetland Park Details

This park uses remaining train trails to connect the harbour to the train station, it provides a private and shaded camping area, and it reuses existing buildings for necessary program and services (education, accommodation) , adapted for climate comfort and water/energy efficiency In matters of details and materials the pavement continues the traditional Portuguese walkway that exists along the boulevard and introduces details in wood in decks and railing as a reference to the coastal pine forest and other ecotourism references of the area. All in combination with iron elements of the train system 85 It also provides a space to enjoy the water. Vegetation provides shade and climate comfort, it is possible to observe biodiversity but also traditional activities like fishing. There is a straight visual connection with the Spanish side of the Guadiana.

Lourdes Barrios Ayala Guadiana River. Sept 2017

Evolving Lower Guadiana

LBA

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 2: A Reinforced Corridor for All Species

A REINFORCED ECOLOGICAL CORRIDOR Reinforcement of original habitats and preservation of intangible heritage

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 2: A Reinforced Corridor for All Species. Existing Conditions

Existing Conditions ECOLOGY

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 2: A Reinforced Corridor for All Species. Existing Conditions

- A modified water system that supports agriculture located in the coast. Native forest has disappeared and most of the land is vacant and abandoned - The condition of the water is decreasing because of the presence of exotic species of flora and fauna that affect negatively original habitats

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 2: A Reinforced Corridor for All Species. Existing Conditions

Lourdes Barrios Ayala Odeleite Corridor, Portugal. Feb, 2018

Evolving Lower Guadiana

LBA

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 2: A Reinforced Corridor for All Species. Existing Conditions

Existing Conditions PRODUCTION

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 2: A Reinforced Corridor for All Species. Existing Conditions

- Some strips of traditional agriculture and native forest spots remain as proof of the past of this landscape.

- There is an extensive area of Montado systems in the Spanish side, in some areas combined with wind or solar energy. This traditional agro-sylvo-pastoral system produces not only cork but also honey, mushrooms and herbs. It is also coherent with rural development and flora/ fauna protection.

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 2: A Reinforced Corridor for All Species. Existing Conditions

Lourdes Barrios Ayala Foz de Odeleite, Portugal. Sept 2017

Evolving Lower Guadiana

LBA

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 2: A Reinforced Corridor for All Species. Existing Conditions

Existing Conditions ACCESSIBILITY

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 2: A Reinforced Corridor for All Species. Existing Conditions

- The Guadiana is mostly inaccessible and its affluents, unexplored.

- River infrastructure and accessibility are limited, so villages and landscape are not properly connected for daily living or tourism purposes.

- Heritage and routes isolated and only accessible by car. Beautiful and isolated defensive ruins along the river are not in use

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 2: A Reinforced Corridor for All Species. Existing Conditions

Lourdes Barrios Ayala Odeleite Corridor, Portugal. Feb 2018

Evolving Lower Guadiana

LBA

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 2: A Reinforced Corridor for All Species. Middle Scale Proposal

Proposal ECOLOGY

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 2: A Reinforced Corridor for All Species. Middle Scale Proposal

The middle scale strategy proposes a strong reinforcement of the ecological value and function of this corridor.

Improvement of habitat for endangered species, - Water quality, removal of exotic species and improvement of affluents - Reintroduction of forest along the waterways as reinforcement of ecological corridors, including no hunting strict policies and providing fish/fauna passages east-west

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 2: A Reinforced Corridor for All Species. Middle Scale Proposal

Removal of exotic vegetation

Planting native vegetation

Control of cattle close to water courses

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 2: A Reinforced Corridor for All Species. Middle Scale Proposal

Proposal PRODUCTION

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 2: A Reinforced Corridor for All Species. Middle Scale Proposal

- Preservation of small scale agriculture with adaptation to climate conditions: water efficiency, crop selection, permaculture principles - Reactivation of traditional agro-sylvo-pastoral systems that include cork oak production and pasture management as a measure against desertification.

- The extension of renewable energies to suitable high areas on the Portuguese side including the use of Odeleite Dam for hydroelectric benefit

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 2: A Reinforced Corridor for All Species. Middle Scale Proposal

Forest that is productive and ecological

Lourdes Barrios Ayala Foz de Odeleite, Portugal. Sept 2017

Evolving Lower Guadiana

LBA

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 2: A Reinforced Corridor for All Species. Middle Scale Proposal

Proposal ACCESSIBILITY

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 2: A Reinforced Corridor for All Species. Middle Scale Proposal

- A reinforced slow traffic system of routes east-west along the affluents and north south, giving visitors the chance to introduce them sells full into this landscape - A recreational corridor next to the Guadiana River, along the agricultural/natural border that connects coast to hinterland. Uses defensive ruins as ecotourism services and receives the existing/new routes coming from the coast.

- A water way is proposed, with two service spots to rent equipment in both extremes of the dam. Incorporating it in the tourism offer.

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 2: A Reinforced Corridor for All Species. Middle Scale Proposal

walkable corridors

Guadiana recreational border

Gonzalo Martin

Gonzalo Martin Martin Gonzalo

0

400 mtr Gonzalo Martin

dammed river

effluent disconnected agriculture

00 underdeveloped riverborder 0

dammed river river dammed

effluent disconnected disconnected effluent agriculture agriculture

underunderdeveloped developed riverborder riverborder

effluent disconnected agriculture

underdeveloped riverborder

400 mtr mtr 400

Guadiana river

vacant land

windenergy

Guadiana river river Guadiana

vacant land land vacant

windenergy windenergy

Guadiana river

vacant land

windenergy

400 mtr

dammed river

0

00 sustainable windenergy

mirador sustainable sustainable windenergy windenergy sustainable

riverborder 0

Guadiana river

new agroforestry

windenergy

riverborder riverborder

Guadiana river river Guadiana

new agroforestry agroforestry new

windenergy windenergy

miradorriverborder

Guadiana river

new agroforestry

windenergy

montado agrosilvopastoral system new connection mirador

montado montado agrosilvopastoral system system agrosilvopastoral mirador

montado

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 2: A Reinforced Corridor for All Species. Design Proposal

This ecological and recreational connection is achieved with the landscape design of the Odeleite-Foupana corridor, two affluents that converge in a very special and preserved place.

It is an outstanding location because of: - Its ecological value, transition for endangered species and habitats - It is possible to explore it through hiking routes but these are mostly disconnected in between them and to the villages - Local agriculture is decreasing because of its elderly population and rural exodus In this case there is also a collection of landmarks that are now not part of a clear network or connection to the Guadiana River as an infrastructure and tourism resource

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 2: A Reinforced Corridor for All Species. Design Proposal Existing Conditions

DISCONNECTED ROUTES LAND ABANDONMENT

EXIS

MAINLY VEHICULAR

STING AGRICULTURE

LACK OF SERVICES

Proposal

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 2: A Reinforced Corridor for All Species. Design Proposal Schemes

Ecology + Production

Accessibility + Heritage

Lourdes Barrios Ayala Foz de Odeleite, Portugal. Sept, 2016

Evolving Lower Guadiana

LBA

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 2: A Reinforced Corridor for All Species. Design Proposal Ecology + Production

- Native forest restoration as an invitation to biodiversity, a reinforcement of corridor and habitat for the Iberian lynx, but also the progressive occupation of vacant land with a restorative ecosystem: the montado. Ecologically valuable and productive at the same time.

- Improvement of water habitat with the removal of exotic species of fauna and flora that endangered native ways. This process is connected with the traditional harvesting of caĂąa along the river, and the production of baskets, activity that was main economy and culture of the river villages for hundreds of years - Fish passages and fauna passages along changes of water level (dams, mills) and highways are provided, being run over the highest cause of mortality of released lynxes

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 2: A Reinforced Corridor for All Species. Design Proposal Ecology + Production

2

ecological corridor

Guadiana river protected ecological corridor hunting area hunting allowed outside ecological corridor

Biodiversity enhancement

route Yberian linx

cork/oak forest 2

ecological corridor imperial eagle

4

traditional agricultural strip

Guadiana river protected ecological corridor

A

hunting area hunting allowed outside ecological corridor

route Yberian linx

rabbit

cork/oak forest

Yberian linx

no tourism - impact = small path - cork/oak forest (original habitat + place to hide - balance restored

imperial eagle

Protected corridors, native habitat restoration and no-hunting policies

4

Guadiana river

traditional agricultural strip

Montado: ecology and production

- preserve scale - abandoned agricultural plot will transformed to oak forest

A

agriculture oak forest

B

rabbit

Yberian linx

no tourism - impact = small path - cork/oak forest (original habitat + place to hide - balance restored

Guadiana river - preserve scale - abandoned agricultural plot will transformed to oak forest

agriculture oak forest

preserved piece of cultural landscape inside natural habitat state

B

Repopulate the landscape with agroforestry: Montado system

preserved piece of cultural landscape inside natural

Guadiana river

Guadiana river oak forest

Lourdes Barrios Ayala Foz de Odeleite, Portugal. Sept, 2016

Evolving Lower Guadiana

LBA

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 2: A Reinforced Corridor for All Species. Design Proposal Accessibility + Heritage

- Preservation of existing traditional agriculture is encouraged, but adapted to an alternative water system with diversification of water sources and efficient management.

- In order to promote collaboration in between farmers/nature and tourism entities as an efficient tool to strength the profit of this landscape, I propose the creation of the slow traffic route Odeleite â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Foz de Odeleite and making it permanently active and accessible with three landscape interventions along the circuit

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 2: A Reinforced Corridor for All Species. Design Proposal Accessibility + Heritage

2

3

Mirador - Services - Safety

Reconnectio

on of Values

1

Accessibility Reinforcement

2

RECONNECTION OF VALUES

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 2: A Reinforced Corridor for All Species. Design Proposal.

Moinho Route

A natural landscape with small cultural elements.

- Two existing main hiking routes pass along the river crossing pieces of agriculture and forest.

- A 3-house little town that is now occupied by a German retired couple who offers airbnb and are planning to accommodate small coffee place - Pastures and crops like cork, olives or fig trees are around the area.

- There is an existing watermill that remains closed. It is not possible to cross the river, causing a disconnection in between routes.

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 2: A Reinforced Corridor for All Species. Design Proposal.

Moinho Route Existing Conditions

PR5 Terras da ordem

3-house town - airbnb

GR15 grande rota do guadiana

Montado Agroforestry

Moinho das pernadas

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 2: A Reinforced Corridor for All Species. Design Proposal.

Moinho Route Landscape Values

Biodiversity uses this area as corridor towards Andevalo in Spain. Endangered, vulnerable and threaten species are native from this area, with captivity habitats and reproductions for Iberian lynxes and the saramugo fish Living heritage that is yet spread on this landscape, an elderly population that continues traditional practices that result in unique quality products

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 2: A Reinforced Corridor for All Species. Design Proposal.

Moinho Route Endangered Species

EN - Iberian lynx

NT - European rabbit

V - Spanish imperial eagle

EN - Anaecypris hispanica

Esther Kiras Guerreiros do Rio, Portugal. May 2016

Evolving Lower Guadiana

LBA

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 2: A Reinforced Corridor for All Species. Design Proposal.

Moinho Route Proposal

The design incorporates a new bridge connection, that makes a difference in the bigger scale connecting two towns to each other but also to the Guadiana River. This connection has an effect in larger national routes, close to this point also arrives the Via Algarviana (Portugal, 300km) and the Via Guadiana (Spain, 60km).

It is a very minimal physical intervention that introduces itself as a line that connects different ecosystems, for all kind of species.

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 2: A Reinforced Corridor for All Species. Design Proposal.

Moinho Route Proposal

A reinforced habitat forest as a east-west corridor for the Iberian Lynx and an improvement of habitat for the saramugo fish next to a fish ladder that will allow river fauna to communicate better in both sides and during low tides 113 Using an old water mill and its dam as a permanent path. A place that incorporates existing heritage and provides a needed closed loop in-between existing routes. Not only giving the chance to people of a natural, healthy experience, but also opportunity for local farmers and new residents to complement their income, making the properties available for ecotourism and participating of the reinforced flow of people during the year The enhanced biodiversity will also bring opportunities for recreational and educational activities that will consequently promote awareness to residents and visitors.

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 2: A Reinforced Corridor for All Species. Design Proposal.

Moinho Route Schemes

Permanent connectivity

Reinforced fauna corridor

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 2: A Reinforced Corridor for All Species. Design Proposal.

Moinho Route Schemes

Active mill - permanent route connection

Line through cultural/natural landscape

Richness in views and experiences

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 2: A Reinforced Corridor for All Species. Design Proposal.

Moinho Route Details

In matters of details, It is a bio-construction that uses materials from the site.

There is a stone element provided on top of the existing dike that remains in its original state.

This new level allows the installation of a grate that protects the fish ladder from other flows.

The fish ladder is made with removed exotic plants that have a structural and traditional value.

The steps down the hill are minimal and just indicative of a virtual straight line towards de newly activated tide mill, made in stone from the area.

A place to observe the emerging native forest, and the biodiversity coming back as a proof of the origins of this landscape

Esther Kiras MĂŠrtola, Portugal. May 2016

Evolving Lower Guadiana

LBA

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 3: A Productive Natural Park

A PRODUCTIVE NATURAL PARK River accessibility improvement, enhancement landscape-product quality in tourism offer

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 3: A Productive Natural Park. Existing Conditions

Existing Conditions ECOLOGY

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 3: A Productive Natural Park. Existing Conditions

Nowadays, this region is suffering of: - Increasing soil erosion, desertification, fire risk and consequent habitat loss and decrease of endangered species population.

- It has a highly modified water system and several sources of pollution: coming from urban and rural communities but also from mining activities around Sao Domingo - All of this occurs in Vale do Guadiana Natural Park, a protected Natura 2000 area that is a biodiversity hub and corridor for endangered species

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 3: A Productive Natural Park. Existing Conditions

Lourdes Barrios Ayala Lagunas de Ruidera, Spain. Sept 2017

Evolving Lower Guadiana

LBA

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 3: A Productive Natural Park. Existing Conditions

Existing Conditions PRODUCTION

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 3: A Productive Natural Park. Existing Conditions

- In Portugal The extensive cereal steppes are being abandoned and with them their ecological value for birds and other animals.

- Most of the renewable energy production is located in Spain, Including hydroelectric in the Chanza Dam. Next to extensive areas of agro-sylvo-pastoral system

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 3: A Productive Natural Park. Existing Conditions

Esther Kiras MĂŠrtola, Portugal. May 2016

Evolving Lower Guadiana

LBA

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 3: A Productive Natural Park. Existing Conditions

Existing Conditions ACCESSIBILITY

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 3: A Productive Natural Park. Existing Conditions

- The public transport offer is limited and slow traffic is not encouraged. There are not designated bike lanes or alternative transport services. Only in Spain, so there is heritage spread in the landscape (ruins, churches, routes) that is only accessible by car, - In the course of the river, Mértola and Pomarao, which were big harbours in the past, are now undeveloped and disconnected from the river border.

- The no longer in use mining area of Sao Domingo – Iberian pyrite belt – gold and silver mined first 400 years ago by the Romans. It is now used fir tourism and the headquarters is now a hotel with a star observatory and a small museum

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 3: A Productive Natural Park. Existing Conditions

Lourdes Barrios Ayala Minas de Sao Domingo, Portugal. Feb 2018

Evolving Lower Guadiana

LBA

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 3: A Productive Natural Park. Middle Scale Proposal

Proposal ECOLOGY

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 3: A Productive Natural Park. Middle Scale Proposal

Ecological measures are similar to the ones of site 2, in matters of improvement of water quality and reforestation of corridors. But this time nature is reinforced with a productive system.

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 3: A Productive Natural Park. Middle Scale Proposal

Esther Kiras MĂŠrtola, Portugal. May 2016

Evolving Lower Guadiana

LBA

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 3: A Productive Natural Park. Middle Scale Proposal

Proposal PRODUCTION

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 3: A Productive Natural Park. Middle Scale Proposal

- First The preservation of priority habitats: maintenance of cereal steppes, core areas and river valleys (birds, fish, Iberian lynx). New crops are selected because they require less water and are easily adaptable to dry soil, like wheat, barley or sunflowers.

- Then, we add a measure against desertification an agro-sylvo-pastoral system that is compatible with rural development, preservation of soil, water and fauna. And consists in mimic nature moving large groups of animals - Water retention landscapes developed in ecofarms and ecovillages of the area, which introduces sustainable water management next to sustainable energies, enhancement of biodiversity and relation with locals.

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 3: A Productive Natural Park. Middle Scale Proposal

1

climate adaptive cropselection traditional

1

climate adaptive cropselection

co

traditional

co

traditional

Against desertification

oli solar energy

healthy valley

precipitation / catchment area biodiversity run off domestic use irrigation

clean water released to the valley

rainwater harvesting pond

grey water treatment

groundwater table

Climate adaptive crops

oliv

w

wh

ba

Esther Kiras MĂŠrtola, Portugal. May 2016

Evolving Lower Guadiana

LBA

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 3: A Productive Natural Park. Middle Scale Proposal

Proposal ACCESSIBILITY

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 3: A Productive Natural Park. Middle Scale Proposal

- Walking routes along waterways are provided with proper services and infrastructure along the river. A continuous cycle path from Mertola, Portugal to Puebla de Guzman in Spain.

- Accessibility improvements in the border to the Guadiana in Pomarao Mertola, iconic heritage, in terms of human occupation, recreational uses and ecotourism.

- Private collaboration with ecofarms and ecovillages in connection to the river

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 3: A Productive Natural Park. Middle Scale Proposal

3

Exploring

river border development Mertola

public / private collaboration

connection to local production

Pomarao station

boat exchange

Green accessibility heritage

agriculture

villages

Potential river - village

Ecofarms collaboration

Esther Kiras MĂŠrtola, Portugal. May 2016

Evolving Lower Guadiana

LBA

Aguias

200

Aguias

100

runoff Aguias

200

0 100 200

200 mtr

runoff

200 mtr

impermeable runoff soils

200 mtr

impermeable soils

0 eucalyptus

cereol crops

vacant land

village

100 inaccesable riverborder

eucalyptus

cereol crops

vacant land

village

inaccesable riverborder

eucalyptus

cereol crops

vacant land

village

0

200 inaccesable riverborder

bicycle priority

impermeable soils

100 200

bicycle priority

0 100 200

bicycle priority

0 native forrest

diversity of crops

riverpark

100 accesable riverborder

native forrest

diversity of crops

riverpark

accesable riverborder

rainwater harvesting

keylane

permacultureal ground

rainwater harvesting

keylane

permacultureal ground

0

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 3: A Productive Natural Park. Design Proposal

The intervention is located in the city of Mértola, the last sailing destination of the Lower Guadiana. It is a wall city that looks towards the river, surrounded by a cultivated pine forest.

- It is an area characterized by impermeable soils, with scattered production that is not really connected with the village, and goods/people commute mainly by vehicular infrastructure .

- There is a private/public conflict in the use of the river border, and there is a vacant former factory building with a view on top of the valley.

- There are a series of landmarks along the river like the river beach or Roman ruins. The village is a historical and architectural icon itself.

- Traditional activities very related to the landscape – wool, fishing, baskets, ceramics that require outdoor spaces – landscape – village - river - The area has three main pillars of development: the Guadiana River, the historical heritage and the traditional production.

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 3: A Productive Natural Park. Design Proposal Existing Conditions

Impermeable soils, scattered occupation

Mainly vehicular access

Private uses conflict

Vacant Factory building

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 3: A Productive Natural Park. Design Proposal Disconnected Values

1

2

4 5

3

01 River beach

02 Museum village

03 River border

04 Torre do Rio

05 Monastery

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 3: A Productive Natural Park. Design Proposal Valuable Species

Rouxinol-pequeno-dos-caniรงos

Cegonha-branca

Lampreia

Robalo

Garรงa-real

Londra

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 3: A Productive Natural Park. Design Proposal Main pillars for ecotourism development

Guadiana River

Historical Heritage

Local traditional products

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 3: A Productive Natural Park. Design Proposal River Park

This area has three main pillars of development: the Guadiana River, the historical heritage and the traditional production.

The proposal brings these three values to the valley and combines them into a vibrant park along the water. A double path that connects a sequence of productive and recreational spaces, with an average of 2m height difference, adapts to tide at different times a day..

The result is an accessible a coherent river border development that reacts to climate conditions and the essence of the river as natural and cultural element of this context.

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 3: A Productive Natural Park. Design Proposal River Park

- As ecological layer, Keyline principles are applied to improve soil infiltration and water retention on the valley; this would allow the regeneration of native vegetation and soil system - The rehabilitation of slopes for agricultural orchards where tourists could appreciate the relation quality-product-landscape. This would be a demonstration area for water management efficiency and climate adaptive rotation crops - Using new and old lines of the landscape, the park connects north to south of the valley, where the heritage is located. Also stairs are provided to connect to strategic spots of the village and bike priority towards the landscape is established

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 3: A Productive Natural Park. Design Proposal Schemes

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 3: A Productive Natural Park. Design Proposal Schemes

- The spaces are located along the topography and support different program like education/demonstration of traditional activities, camping and biking services, next to leisure/contemplation.

- The old factory building is reused for arts, crafts and traditional products are exposed/sold. This will create jobs, cultural and economical movement. From there is possible to contemplate the heritage and biodiversity of the area.

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 3: A Productive Natural Park. Design Proposal Places along the water CAMPING SERVICES AREA

PRODUCTIVE SLOPES

BOAT ARRIVAL

CONNECTION TO RIVER LEVEL

CONTEMPLATION CORNER

NEW BRIDGE LANDSCAPE MIRADOR

PRODUCTIVE SLOPES

CONNECTION TO RIVER LEVEL

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site 3: A Productive Natural Park. Design Proposal Details

The diverse conditions of the ground and the minimal intervention, ask for a series of details for the path, retaining elements, benches, bridges and rails that are part of a family of local materials and shapes that relate to cultural elements of this landscape

Evolving Lower Guadiana Site-specific application of an integrated regional management approach

A PRODUCTIVE NATURAL PARK

A REINFORCED CORRIDOR

A GATEWAY TO THE LANDSCAPE

Evolving Lower Guadiana Interviews

Portugal Antonio Lambe (Aambiental) Ole Falk (Vida Pura) Robin Tenge (Vida Pura) Bernd Walter Mueller (Tamera Healing Biotope) Esther Laumann (Guadiana Ecotourism)

EspaĂąa Maykol Garcia (Aborigen) Alejandro del Moral (Parque Natural Lagunas de Ruidera) Emanuele Pierobon (Proyecto Andalbagua)

Evolving Lower Guadiana Special thanks to:

Hanneke Kijne - Harm Veenenbos - Lada Hrsak Maike van Stiphout Martin Knuijt Giuliana Sibilia AHK Friends and OKRA colleagues My family GDPT MÊrtola Cämara Municipal de Castro Marim Stichting NHBOS