João Valente is the 2nd generation owner of Monte Silveira Bio, a mixed enterprise farm in Portugal. Monte Silveira Bio has gone through a series of transformations through the years. What was once a conventional farm, then organic, is now on the journey to regenerative agriculture.
But what exactly inspired João to transition his farm? We spoke with him to learn more about his learnings and outcomes.
Farmer
João Valente
Location
Idanha a Nova, Portugal
Type of farm
Mixed enterprise
History of Monte Silveira Bio
Monte Silveira Bio was once a conventional farm specialising in tobacco production. The farm used pesticides, herbicides, ploughing, and tillage in cultivation. In 1999, the tobacco subsidies that were powering the farm were abolished. As a result, João decided to transition to organic farming.
In 2002, he started direct drilling and could see that the ecosystem was responding. As he puts it: “The farm was more resilient and lively. Biodiversity was increasing, and we were making more money”.
Intrigued by the impact of direct drilling, he decided to go to Australia to learn more about alternative farming methods. That’s when he learned about regenerative farming and everything changed.
Why did João transition to regenerative agriculture?
João was facing a number of challenges on the farm. Whether it be extreme weather or his bottom line, his well-being was taking a hit.
“We were too busy thinking about what was above the soil and never considering what was below it.”
The farm was fighting nature. João states that when he was conventionally farming, his soil never made it past 1% organic matter. He wanted to make a change for his well-being, his finances, and his farmland.
Ecological benefits
- Soil organic matter at 5%
- Increased the number and diversity of species on the farm
- 797 plants and herbs on the farm
Social impact
- Less stress in his job
- Support from farmers across Europe
Profitability
-
Higher margins for his produce
-
Additional income from Carbon+ Credits
Other benefits
- Less expensive machinery needed
- Reduced dependence on subsidies
João’s thoughts on the Carbon+ Program
João has used our Carbon+ Program to support his journey to regenerative farming. He has created a roadmap laying out the goals he has for his farm business, while also accessing an extra income stream along the way.
As he puts it:
“The money from Carbon+ is important for buying new tools and implementing new practices on the farm.”
But he believes it goes beyond that, too. It’s also about people.
Thoughts on Carbon+
“It’s not just about the program. It’s also about the people. I’ve had the chance to find a community where we all have the same passion. We support each other and share our outcomes.”
New practises
Regenerative grazing, cover crops, no-till, no chemical inputs, agroforestry, and biodiversity habitat creation.
Ready to future-proof your farm?
