Planting forest strips to preserve biodiversity

To combat soil erosion and desertification due to climate change, this project will create windbreaks on agricultural land along roads in two municipalities.
Key activities include:

• Professional Workshops: Fourteen workshops for local and regional farmers will address soil erosion, water conservation, ecological farming, and irrigation technology. Experts and organizations will share best practices.
• Cadastral Surveying: Surveying and preparing a protective fencing plan with farmers to select and manage afforestation areas.
• Windbreak Installation: Establishing a 10,000-meter forest strip as a protective windbreak.
• Youth Engagement: Eco-focused activities for students to learn about soil protection and sustainable farming.
• Maintenance and Equipment: Ongoing upkeep of roads and trees, alongside necessary equipment purchases.
• Project Closing Conference: Summary of findings, outcomes, and long-term strategies.

Project objective

The main goal of the project is to reduce soil erosion and desertification caused by negative climate change by creating windbreak forest strips along agricultural roads in the municipalities of Senta and Tompa. The project seeks to enhance the resilience of agricultural land, improve soil and water conservation, and promote sustainable, ecological farming practices. In addition, the project aims to raise awareness among young people and eco-conscious schoolchildren through educational programs and hands-on activities, teaching them about soil protection, water management, and chemical-free farming. The project also includes professional workshops for farmers, cadastral surveying, road maintenance, purchase of necessary equipment, and a closing conference to share results and best practices, fostering cross-border collaboration and knowledge exchange. A total of 24 events were organized throughout the project.

Results

The creation of windbreaks along agricultural roads is expected to produce significant environmental, agricultural, and social benefits. Key results include reduced soil erosion, improved crop yields, water conservation, enhanced biodiversity, climate resilience, and carbon sequestration. By protecting the topsoil, windbreaks increase agricultural efficiency, reduce the need for fertilizers, and support organic farming practices. The strengthened humus layer fosters richer flora and fauna, contributing to faster ecosystem regeneration. Over the long term, these outcomes will enhance the sustainability and resilience of agricultural systems, improve local farmers’ profitability, and promote biodiversity conservation at both community and municipal levels.

• Environmental Benefits

- Measuring the land routes to prepare the afforestation plan (2 sessions).
- Afforestation process (2 sessions).
- Replacement maintenance of installed trees (2 sessions).

• Agricultural Productivity

- Higher crop yields and water conservation.
- Reduced need for fertilizers due to soil retention.
- Workshops for farmers (7 session).

• Climate Resilience

- Enhanced ability to withstand extreme weather conditions.

- Workshops with farmers to select tree planting sites (7 session)
- Long-term soil stability and sustainable agricultural systems.

• Community Impact

- Increased awareness among youth and local residents about sustainable farming.

- Educating young people on soil erosion (4 session)
- A positive shift in local attitudes toward environmental protection.

• Sustainability and Long-Term Impact

- Purchase of two Tractors and equipments.
- Improved soil fertility and biodiversity over time.
- Demonstrable, long-term conservation benefits for individuals and municipalities.