Forest Center of the Balearic Islands (CEFOR)
Country: Spain | Region: Balearic Islands
The Forest Center of the Balearic Islands (CEFOR) is an institution under the Forest Management and Soil Protection Service of the Government of the Balearic Islands, managed by the Balearic Institute of Nature (IBANAT). Its objective is to conserve the forest diversity and natural spaces of the Balearic Islands, promoting the sustainable use of forest resources and contributing to the fight against climate change.
Located on the public estate of Menut, it has been in operation since 1933. Initially dedicated to the production of forest plants as a nursery, it has evolved into a reference center for forestry research and experimentation. Currently, its main functions include the production of native plants, the conservation of forest diversity, training, and environmental awareness.
Native Plant Production
CEFOR has an average annual production of 140,000 plants, destined for projects related to forest restoration, regeneration of woodland areas, and recovery of degraded habitats, as well as the conservation of endangered species. The plants produced at the center are also used for landscaping with native flora. The center has two auxiliary nurseries in Menorca and Ibiza.
Conservation of Forest Diversity
CEFOR’s Seed Bank preserves the genetic diversity of forest species and provides reproductive forest material for the restoration of degraded habitats. It safeguards 270 key species (20% of the total flora of the Balearic Islands) from all natural habitats, including endemic and protected species. The bank holds around 34,000,000 seeds. Additionally, it supplies high-quality, certified reproductive forest material.
Forestry Training
CEFOR conducts employment workshops, training internships for vocational and university students, and organizes meetings and specialized courses on the management, design, and innovation of the forested rural environment, as well as general courses on environmental topics.
Forestry Experimentation and Research
CEFOR studies different plant production protocols, deepening knowledge on seed handling, germination, and conservation. Additionally, it carries out actions related to forest protection, silviculture, and forest genetics, and researches the behavior of Mediterranean species and their adaptation to climate change.
Forestry and Environmental Awareness
CEFOR has a Forest Network team that conducts various activities, engaging more than 4,000 people annually. Additionally, it manages the distribution of plants for the design and implementation of forest gardens in public institutions and educational centers.
Contact
Carles Cardona - Technical Director of CEFOR
ccardona@ibanat.caib.es
Forest Center of the Balearic Islands (CEFOR)
Ctra. Ma10 Pollença-Andratx, km 17.5 (Escorca, Mallorca, Balearic Islands)
Tel: +34 971 517 055
Website: xarxaforestal.org/cefor/