Session on Rivers and Streams in São Joanico - 2025

On August 15th, as part of the festivities of the village of São Joanico (municipality of Vimioso), a very special activity took place, bringing together local knowledge, science, and environmental awareness.

During the donkey walk, promoted within the scope of the ASINIFIRE project, participants had the opportunity to attend an awareness-raising and information session, integrated into the “Rivers and Streams” project.

One of the highlights of the walk took place along the Angueira River, where a session was led by Professor Amílcar Teixeira and Fernando Teixeira, from the Polytechnic Institute of Bragança (IPB), on the importance of preserving rivers and riparian galleries. This session included a demonstration of electrofishing — a scientific technique used to identify fish species and other aquatic organisms and to assess water quality.

During the activity, participants were able to closely observe several species inhabiting this ecosystem, including the sensitive Panjorca do Esla fish, and to understand how water quality differs between natural areas and modified areas such as weirs. It became clear that in weirs water quality is lower and there is a greater presence of exotic species, while in free-flowing sections of the river the water is cleaner and there is a higher diversity of native species.

This initiative reinforced the importance of maintaining healthy riparian galleries, with appropriate tree and shrub vegetation, which are essential to ensure water quality and the balance of riparian ecosystems. The urgency of preventing the spread of exotic and invasive species — a serious threat to the biodiversity of our rivers — was also highlighted.

Community involvement in this action was fundamental in strengthening environmental awareness, demonstrating that we all have a role to play in preserving our natural resources.

To all participants, residents of São Joanico, and the entities involved, our heartfelt thanks for contributing to such an inspiring day and for continuing to defend and value our natural and cultural heritage!