SpringLIFE will demonstrate the Integrated Watershed Restoration Framework (IWRF) as an operational methodology for restoring hydrological functionality in Mediterranean drylands. It combines hydrological intelligence, Nature-based Water Retention Measures (NWRMs), scientific monitoring, participatory governance and bioregional finance to enable coordinated, evidence-based restoration across properties and sectors.
The IWRF will be implemented in the Barlavento hydrological region of Southwest Algarve, covering 118 000 ha and 23 watersheds affected by water scarcity, erosion, soil degradation, wildfire risk and desertification. Five Bioregional Restoration Hubs will demonstrate NWRMs across 267 ha, with potential hydrological benefits extending over 1 067 ha. Measures including soil decompaction, contour runoff management, keyline subsoiling, riparian restoration and revegetation aim to increase water retention and infiltration from 2 151 to 4 101 m³/ha/year and reduce soil erosion by approximately 50% on treated land. Scientific monitoring will assess performance, support adaptive management and provide evidence for replication.
SpringLIFE will strengthen practitioner capacity and connect landowners, communities, public authorities, researchers and investors.
It will develop at least 25 investment-ready projects and aims to mobilise €5 million by project completion for post-LIFE implementation. This will support 22 additional Hubs, increasing cumulative direct restoration to approximately 996 ha, with a potential hydrological area of influence of nearly 4 000 ha.
Ultimately, SpringLIFE will demonstrate how the climate and water crisis can catalyse bioregional cooperation, unlock restoration economies and translate watershed recovery into greater ecological resilience, water security and more resilient livelihoods.