Genetic preservation of Ramo Grande breed further strengthened with new collection
First edition of Livestock Preparation Course for Competitions ends today and involved 14 participants
Setor apícola em crescimento nos Açores, valoriza António Ventura
Welcome to the website of the Regional Directorate for Agriculture, Veterinary, and Food.
The Regional Directorate for Agriculture, Veterinary, and Food (DRAVA) is a department of the Regional Secretariat for Agriculture and Food (SRAA) responsible for assisting in the development of public policies related to agriculture and livestock farming.
In addition to conducting annual training, awareness-raising activities, and scientific studies, DRAVA is tasked with supervising, promoting, and enhancing the quality of Azorean agricultural production. This includes encouraging agricultural diversification, supporting organic farming, ensuring animal and plant health, and maintaining public veterinary hygiene.
The department also oversees the following services:
1. Directorate of Veterinary Services and the Regional Veterinary Laboratory;
2. Directorate of Agriculture Services, the Regional Plant Health Laboratory, and the Regional Oenology Laboratory; and
3. Administrative, Financial, and Planning Section.
August 7, 2025
Genetic preservation of Ramo Grande breed further strengthened with new collection
The Regional Secretariat for Agriculture and Food, through the Regional Directorate for Agriculture, Veterinary and Food, and in collaboration with the Directorate-General for Food and Veterinary Affairs, carried out an important action for the collection and genetic conservation of the native Ramo Grande breed between July 21 and 25, 2025. This initiative, which had not been carried out for nearly a decade, ensured the cryopreservation of approximately 4,000 samples from carefully selected bulls, thereby strengthening the genetic base available under the breed's Conservation and Genetic Improvement Programme. With this operation, the Azorean Government reiterates its commitment to enhancing endogenous genetic resources and preserving animal biodiversity – fundamental pillars for sustainability, inbreeding control, and the resilience of the agricultural sector. The Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Food, António Ventura, emphasises that "the Ramo Grande breed is an essential part of the genetic and cultural heritage of the Azores" and "its future requires vision, investment and coordinated action." He added: "This action is a decisive step in this strategy towards protection and development, ensuring that future generations can continue to count on this breed, which is emblematic of our agricultural history."
April 24, 2025
First edition of Livestock Preparation Course for Competitions ends today and involved 14 participants
The first edition of the Livestock Preparation Course for Competitions, an initiative of the São Miguel Agricultural Development Service promoted in collaboration with the São Miguel Agricultural Association and CERCA - Regional Strategy Centre for Meat in the Azores ends today. This course is a fundamental tool for improving the quality and value of beef cattle, emphasising the essential role of preparing them for shows and competitions. The adequate preparation of animals enhances their performance and presentation at these events. It also contributes directly to increasing meat value and acknowledging producers' efforts. As such, investing in the training of preparers is a decisive step towards boosting the competitiveness and visibility of regional production. The 15-hour course began on Tuesday at the São Miguel Agricultural Association and ends today. It was attended by 14 participants who dedicated themselves to learning the best techniques for highlighting and enhancing the traits of each animal. The closing session will feature a demonstration performed by trainees with the Regional Director for Agriculture, Veterinary and Food, Luís Estrela.