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The development of the Special Program for the Site of Community Importance (SCI) PTMMD0001 - Cetaceans of Madeira has been determined, aiming at the conservation of marine biodiversity.
The Regional Secretariat for Tourism, Environment and Culture has determined, through Order no. 258/2026, the preparation of the Special Program for the Site of Community Importance (PESCM) for the Cetaceans of Madeira area (PTMMD0001). This program covers an area of 681,498.69 hectares, including the waters around the islands of Madeira, Desertas, and Porto Santo.
The central objective is to strengthen the safeguarding of natural values, promote sustainable resource management, and regulate human, recreational, and tourist activities in the area. The Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation, IP-RAM, will be the entity responsible for drafting the plan, which will have a 12-month deadline and will be accompanied by an advisory committee composed of various regional entities, including the University of Madeira and the Madeira Whale Museum.
The Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation will occupy the Quinta Vila Passos through a sublease and receive the vessel 'GOLDMUND' to support marine protected areas.
Two ordinances authorize the distribution of budgetary charges for the acquisition of a river flow monitoring network and an integrated forest fire video surveillance system.
A 100% financial support for reforestation and recovery of forest areas affected by fires, pests, or natural disasters has been approved.