Project Description
Amid the unique landscape of the Caatinga, in the municipality of Curimatá, Piauí, a project is taking root that goes far beyond environmental restoration. It represents a deep commitment to the land and the local community, bringing generations together around sustainability and the responsible use of natural resources.
At the heart of this initiative is a smallholder farmer, the landowner, and a widely respected figure in the region for her deep knowledge of native Caatinga species. Her experience as a seed collector has been key not only in selecting the species to be planted but also in sharing conservation and sustainable management practices. Her leadership has mobilized the community, driving the creation of a cooperative focused on strengthening small-scale farming and improving living conditions, especially for women in the region.
Stakeholders and local communities involved in the project
Community Members – The main drivers of the project, actively participating in seed collection, planting, and land management.
Local Government & Environmental Agencies – Supporting land use policies, permitting, and ensuring alignment with conservation goals.
Private Sector & Donors – Funding restoration efforts and investing in sustainable supply chains that benefit local producers.
Community Involvement
Leadership in Restoration – The project is led by a respected local farmer with extensive experience in seed collection and Caatinga species management. This ensures that restoration efforts align with local knowledge and needs.
Knowledge Sharing – Traditional land-use practices are integrated into the project, combining ancestral techniques with innovative restoration methods.
Project Goals
Restore native vegetation – Recover degraded land by planting and nurturing native Caatinga species, enhancing biodiversity and ecosystem resilience.
Reintroduce pollinators – Establish a meliponary (stingless beekeeping) to support local pollination and improve crop yields.
Improve soil and water retention – Reduce erosion and restore water balance in the area by reforesting critical zones.
Support women's leadership in seed collection, planting, and cooperative development to enhance economic opportunities.
Co-benefits
Beyond restoring degraded land, this project is designed to bring multiple environmental, social, and economic benefits to the community and the broader ecosystem.
Knowledge Sharing & Capacity Building – The project integrates traditional ecological knowledge with modern restoration techniques, ensuring skills are passed down through generations
Cultural Preservation – The involvement of local farmers, particularly women, strengthens traditional agricultural practices and ensures that native seed varieties continue to be cultivated.
New Income Streams – Sustainable harvesting of fruits, honey, and medicinal plants can create long-term revenue for local families.
Biodiversity Conservation – By restoring native vegetation, the project creates habitat for local wildlife, including pollinators essential for both natural and agricultural ecosystems.
Tree species (planted and/or existing)
Umbu, Seriguela, Goiaba, Imburana, Goiaba, Cajá. Caju. Xixá
Tree density (trees/ha)
7000