Press release - Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro - Communication

Secretaria Regional do Ambiente e Ação Climática

In view of the concerns recently raised by various media outlets regarding access to and enjoyment of the Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro (stream) on the island of Flores, the Regional Secretariat for the Environment and Climate Action would like to clarify the following:

1. The Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro is an extraordinary natural heritage site in the Region, and for this reason, it has been included in the Central Zone and West Coast Cliffs Protected Landscape Area as part of the Flores Island Nature Park;

2. This site represents one of the main tourist assets of Flores Island and is also one of its most emblematic visiting points;

3. The Regional Government, through the Regional Secretariat for the Environment and Climate Action, has been closely monitoring the situation from the outset and has liaised with the owners of the land covering the visiting area;

4. In the course of the contacts established, a collaborative attitude was demonstrated, with the owners assuring us that, contrary to what has been reported, there is no intention of restricting regular access or limiting the enjoyment of the Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro;

5. To date, no intensive deforestation or intervention actions have been identified that have resulted in a change in the site landscape;

6. However, to dispel the concerns that have been expressed by the population and visitors, the Regional Government intends to define the visitation area in a minimalist manner and using endogenous materials. This will guarantee adequate conditions for the management and enjoyment of the area, a request for which the owners have already shown their willingness;

7. Nevertheless, it is important to emphasise that, should the situation change or should there be any constraints on normal visitation of the site, the Region has legal mechanisms at its disposal to safeguard the public interest and guarantee free access to and enjoyment of this area;

8. The Regional Government would also like to clarify that it will continue to monitor this situation closely, urging Flores residents and visitors to the Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro to remain calm. It reiterates its position that no limitation or prohibition will be allowed on the access to and enjoyment of this iconic space. Moreover, the Regional Secretariat for the Environment and Climate Action will undertake the necessary efforts to create suitable conditions for its preservation and visitation.