Inspired by the Austrian rebel farmer, Sep Holzer, the Tamera community started creating a water retention landscape in 2007. Through building small dams, swales and reforestation, much of the annual rainfall can now sink into the ground and recharge the aquifers. This encourages the growth of vegetation, brings back wildlife, and gives the community water autonomy,

 

Since 2017, most of continental Portugal has been affected by severe drought. Annual rainfall fell below average, and the water in the retention spaces sunk to extremely low levels. Even in times of drought, Tamera remains water autonomous. Humans and animals have access to drinking water and gardens can still be irrigated. 

 

After 7 years, the water retention space has filled again, providing fresh water to the community and wildlife.