Madeira Friends commitment to reforesting Madeira
Madeira Friends Signs Reforestation Agreement with IFCN and Regional Authorities — Year 2024
In August 2024, wildfires once again tore through Madeira. Forests blackened. Animals fled. Places we walk and drive through were swallowed by smoke and flame.
It was heartbreaking — and a familiar pain.
A Fundraiser Fueled by Love for the Island
Within days of the fires, Madeira Friends launched a fundraiser to help restore what had been lost. We didn’t know exactly how people would respond, but everyone came together.
In just a short time, we raised €17,403.
This wasn’t just money. It was a message: we care about this island, and we want to be part of the solution.
A Real Step Forward: Our Protocol with IFCN
On 16 December 2024, we signed an official protocol with the Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation (IFCN). That moment made everything feel real.
The agreement gives us access to a 10,000m² plot of land in Palheiro Ferreiro, Funchal, where the reforestation will happen. It also means we’re in this for the long term — not just planting trees, but maintaining them for at least five years, alongside awareness-building and hands-on work.
This is our community’s first official reforestation partnership with the government — and hopefully the first of many.
But Then… the Rain Came
Here’s the honest truth: planting hasn’t started yet in 2025.
Why? Because the land — as beautiful as it is — sits on steep slopes (30% to 70%). Before we can plant anything, the area needs to be cleared and leveled with heavy machinery.
And for months, it had been raining.
The soil became too wet, too unstable, and too risky to work on safely. So we waited. And we stayed in touch with the land prep team.
Looking Ahead to Autumn 2025
Madeira’s tree-planting season runs from October to early May. Since we’ve missed the spring window, our first official planting phase is now planned for autumn 2025.
It’s not the timeline we expected. But it’s the right one — one that puts safety, preparation, and long-term success first.
Now that the weather has improved we are in close contact with the field team to begin land preparation in the coming weeks, as soon as the soil is dry and stable enough for machinery to access the area.
What This Is Really About
This isn’t just about planting trees.
It’s about community. About proving that people from all over the world can come together for a place they love. About leaving something better behind.
We’re proud of what’s been done so far — and even more excited about what comes next.
How You Can Stay Involved
We’ll keep you posted every step of the way at Madeira Friends
