Charneca Landscape Observatory

Charneca Landscape Observatory (CLO) is located in the municipality of Chamusca, center of Portugal (NUTS III Lezíria do Tejo), located in the landscape unit of 'Charneca Ribatejana'. It is part of the Mediterranean climate region, shaped by sedimentary processes related with Tagus river evolution. It is a natural value farming system, rich in biodiversity and agriculture and forestry are the main activities. Local communities feel a strong identity and attachment to this landscape, its history and traditions related to its vernacular management, heritage and values. The landscape is characterized by a diversity that is visible in contrasting land forms such as valleys and hills, and in different land covers such as woodlands and open fields.

Objectives and Expected Activities: CLO is a non-profit association, created in August 2018. Its aims are to:

• Promote the knowledge of the Charneca landscape and its dissemination.
• Develop communication among people and organizations interested in landscape related topics and activities, to create actions and experiences based on the landscape, the cultural heritage and territorial identities.
• Collaborate with public and private organizations on common goals, through the establishment of partnerships, at national or international level.
• Contribute to an increased awareness of the civil society regarding the value of Charneca landscape and its changes.

CLO emerged as a bottom-up initiative to develop the concept of a Landscape Observatory, following the ELC recommendations, involving landscape researchers and practitioners and the local communities.