Analysis of diameter distribution using LiDAR technology in the holm oak forests of M.U.P nº 11 in the municipality of Valldemossa (Balearic Islands)
Authorship
P.A.M.
Master's Degree in Forest Engineering (2nd ed)
P.A.M.
Master's Degree in Forest Engineering (2nd ed)
Defense date
07.07.2026 10:15
07.07.2026 10:15
Summary
This study is based on a Mediterranean holm oak forest (Quercus ilex subsp. ilex) located within the public estate of Son Moragues (Mallorca), a remnant coppice forest that was exploited for firewood production until the mid-20th century. Following its abandonment, driven by the widespread use of fossil fuels and rural depopulation, the forest recovered its tree structure and vitality. However, the lack of management, stool exhaustion, climate change, and pest outbreaks eventually weakened the forest stand. In this context, the main objective of this study is to develop models capable of estimating the diameter distributions of these forest formations using field data from a forest inventory conducted within the study area and low-density LiDAR data (1 point/m2). These models are intended to support multifunctional forest planning aimed at wildfire prevention, improving forest health, enhancing climate resilience, promoting natural regeneration, and ensuring sustainable firewood production. The methodology is structured into three phases. The first phase involves the characterization of forest stands through the development of a forest typology map, an accessibility analysis, and the delineation of site quality classes. The second phase focuses on the detailed assessment of 39 georeferenced plots through a field inventory that provided dendrometric and mensurational information, together with the processing of LiDAR data to derive a set of metrics. Finally, the scale and shape parameters of the Weibull probability density function are modelled using parameter estimation and parameter recovery approaches. Linear regression models were initially evaluated; however, due to their lack of statistical significance, Random Forest models were applied, showing a more consistent performance. The scale parameter (b) estimation model explains 87.3% of the observed variability, with a relative root mean square error of 11.3%, whereas the shape parameter (c) estimation model explains 79.1% of the observed variability, with a relative error of 11.08%, showing a greater prediction bias. These results provide a solid basis for forest management planning in the Son Moragues holm oak forest.
This study is based on a Mediterranean holm oak forest (Quercus ilex subsp. ilex) located within the public estate of Son Moragues (Mallorca), a remnant coppice forest that was exploited for firewood production until the mid-20th century. Following its abandonment, driven by the widespread use of fossil fuels and rural depopulation, the forest recovered its tree structure and vitality. However, the lack of management, stool exhaustion, climate change, and pest outbreaks eventually weakened the forest stand. In this context, the main objective of this study is to develop models capable of estimating the diameter distributions of these forest formations using field data from a forest inventory conducted within the study area and low-density LiDAR data (1 point/m2). These models are intended to support multifunctional forest planning aimed at wildfire prevention, improving forest health, enhancing climate resilience, promoting natural regeneration, and ensuring sustainable firewood production. The methodology is structured into three phases. The first phase involves the characterization of forest stands through the development of a forest typology map, an accessibility analysis, and the delineation of site quality classes. The second phase focuses on the detailed assessment of 39 georeferenced plots through a field inventory that provided dendrometric and mensurational information, together with the processing of LiDAR data to derive a set of metrics. Finally, the scale and shape parameters of the Weibull probability density function are modelled using parameter estimation and parameter recovery approaches. Linear regression models were initially evaluated; however, due to their lack of statistical significance, Random Forest models were applied, showing a more consistent performance. The scale parameter (b) estimation model explains 87.3% of the observed variability, with a relative root mean square error of 11.3%, whereas the shape parameter (c) estimation model explains 79.1% of the observed variability, with a relative error of 11.08%, showing a greater prediction bias. These results provide a solid basis for forest management planning in the Son Moragues holm oak forest.
Direction
ALVAREZ GONZALEZ, JUAN GABRIEL (Tutorships)
ALVAREZ GONZALEZ, JUAN GABRIEL (Tutorships)
Court
PEREZ CRUZADO, CESAR (Coordinator)
PEREZ CRUZADO, CESAR (Chairman)
DIEGUEZ ARANDA, ULISES (Secretary)
DIAZ VARELA, RAMON ALBERTO (Member)
PEREZ CRUZADO, CESAR (Coordinator)
PEREZ CRUZADO, CESAR (Chairman)
DIEGUEZ ARANDA, ULISES (Secretary)
DIAZ VARELA, RAMON ALBERTO (Member)
Project for a cattle breeding center for 1,400 heads in Frades, A Coruña.
Authorship
S.C.R.
Master's Degree in Agronomic Engineering
S.C.R.
Master's Degree in Agronomic Engineering
Defense date
07.07.2026 09:30
07.07.2026 09:30
Summary
In this project, a rearing center for Holstein-Friesian cattle will be developed, specifically for 1,400 head, with ages ranging from 15 days old to 24 months, when they are in the pre-calving stage and are taken back to their original farms. From 15 days up to 12 months of age, the animals will be housed in a steel barn with three-hinged portal frames, and from 12 to 24 months of age in another barn with the same structure, although they are different buildings due to their dimensions and daily management tasks. The project will include forage silos and a manure storage area, since from 15 days up to 12 months of age the animals will be kept on deep litter bedding, and from 12 to 24 months in cubicles with alleys that will be cleaned by cleaning robots. Because of this, a slurry pit with a concrete structure must also be built, sized according to the number of livestock units (LU) that will be housed in this system. The rearing barn will also include a machinery storage building made of concrete, part of which will be used as a hay barn to store the dry forage needed for ration formulation. For feed preparation, an automated feeding system will be used, requiring an additional steel-framed building. Due to the high energy consumption of this farm, a small renewable energy generation project will also be implemented. However, in order not to overload the roofs of the barns with photovoltaic solar panels, a wind turbine will be installed to reduce the number of solar panels required and achieve better foundation performance. Any surplus electricity will be fed into the grid, generating income from it.
In this project, a rearing center for Holstein-Friesian cattle will be developed, specifically for 1,400 head, with ages ranging from 15 days old to 24 months, when they are in the pre-calving stage and are taken back to their original farms. From 15 days up to 12 months of age, the animals will be housed in a steel barn with three-hinged portal frames, and from 12 to 24 months of age in another barn with the same structure, although they are different buildings due to their dimensions and daily management tasks. The project will include forage silos and a manure storage area, since from 15 days up to 12 months of age the animals will be kept on deep litter bedding, and from 12 to 24 months in cubicles with alleys that will be cleaned by cleaning robots. Because of this, a slurry pit with a concrete structure must also be built, sized according to the number of livestock units (LU) that will be housed in this system. The rearing barn will also include a machinery storage building made of concrete, part of which will be used as a hay barn to store the dry forage needed for ration formulation. For feed preparation, an automated feeding system will be used, requiring an additional steel-framed building. Due to the high energy consumption of this farm, a small renewable energy generation project will also be implemented. However, in order not to overload the roofs of the barns with photovoltaic solar panels, a wind turbine will be installed to reduce the number of solar panels required and achieve better foundation performance. Any surplus electricity will be fed into the grid, generating income from it.
Direction
Torres Labandeira, Manuel Luis (Tutorships)
Torres Labandeira, Manuel Luis (Tutorships)
Court
RODRIGUEZ RODRIGUEZ, MANUEL RAMIRO (Coordinator)
RODRIGUEZ RODRIGUEZ, MANUEL RAMIRO (Chairman)
Fernández Rodríguez, María Elena (Secretary)
FERNANDEZ RODRIGUEZ, MARIA DOLORES (Member)
RODRIGUEZ RODRIGUEZ, MANUEL RAMIRO (Coordinator)
RODRIGUEZ RODRIGUEZ, MANUEL RAMIRO (Chairman)
Fernández Rodríguez, María Elena (Secretary)
FERNANDEZ RODRIGUEZ, MARIA DOLORES (Member)
Technical project for a heifer rearing cattle barn in the municipality of Ordes, A Coruña
Authorship
R.G.I.
Master's Degree in Agronomic Engineering
R.G.I.
Master's Degree in Agronomic Engineering
Defense date
07.07.2026 10:30
07.07.2026 10:30
Summary
The purpose of this project is the design and sizing of a barn intended for the rearing of dairy heifers, with a maximum capacity of 500 animals, located in Mesón do Vento (A Coruña). The facility will provide a specialized rearing service to dairy farms in the surrounding area, taking advantage of the high concentration of farms existing in the region. The barn is designed with a rectangular floor plan measuring 34 x 100 m, complemented by an adjacent 14 x 10 m storage building intended for the storage of straw, materials and auxiliary installations. The animals will be organized into groups according to age, remaining on the farm from 2 months of age until approximately 22 months of age, at which point they will leave the facility to join milk production farms. The housing system will combine collective deep-bedded pens for the youngest animals and areas with cubicles and headlocks for the older heifers. The project also includes the design of the water supply system, sanitation system, manure and slurry management facilities, electrical installation and a photovoltaic system for energy self-consumption. The animals will be housed in collective deep-bedded pens, which will be renewed weekly.
The purpose of this project is the design and sizing of a barn intended for the rearing of dairy heifers, with a maximum capacity of 500 animals, located in Mesón do Vento (A Coruña). The facility will provide a specialized rearing service to dairy farms in the surrounding area, taking advantage of the high concentration of farms existing in the region. The barn is designed with a rectangular floor plan measuring 34 x 100 m, complemented by an adjacent 14 x 10 m storage building intended for the storage of straw, materials and auxiliary installations. The animals will be organized into groups according to age, remaining on the farm from 2 months of age until approximately 22 months of age, at which point they will leave the facility to join milk production farms. The housing system will combine collective deep-bedded pens for the youngest animals and areas with cubicles and headlocks for the older heifers. The project also includes the design of the water supply system, sanitation system, manure and slurry management facilities, electrical installation and a photovoltaic system for energy self-consumption. The animals will be housed in collective deep-bedded pens, which will be renewed weekly.
Direction
Torres Labandeira, Manuel Luis (Tutorships)
Torres Labandeira, Manuel Luis (Tutorships)
Court
RODRIGUEZ RODRIGUEZ, MANUEL RAMIRO (Coordinator)
RODRIGUEZ RODRIGUEZ, MANUEL RAMIRO (Chairman)
Fernández Rodríguez, María Elena (Secretary)
BESTEIRO DOVAL, ROBERTO (Member)
RODRIGUEZ RODRIGUEZ, MANUEL RAMIRO (Coordinator)
RODRIGUEZ RODRIGUEZ, MANUEL RAMIRO (Chairman)
Fernández Rodríguez, María Elena (Secretary)
BESTEIRO DOVAL, ROBERTO (Member)
Comparative analysis of propagation speeds estimated with different models in shrubland communities without trees in Galicia.
Authorship
L.G.T.
Master's Degree in Forest Engineering (2nd ed)
L.G.T.
Master's Degree in Forest Engineering (2nd ed)
Defense date
02.19.2026 09:45
02.19.2026 09:45
Summary
This Master’s Final Project consists of the analysis of five predictive models of surface fire rate of spread in order to establish a comparison among the estimates obtained, considering treeless shrubland communities and meteorological characteristics typical of Galicia. Three empirical models were used: Vega et al (1998), Fernandes (2001) and Anderson et al (2015); one physical model, Balbi et al (2020) and one semi-empirical model, Rothermel (1972). The model by Vega et al (1998) was chosen as the reference model to establish the comparisons, as it was developed from burn data on shrubland communities in Galicia. The equations were applied to a historical database (Vega et al, 2022) that includes destructive inventories of 673 plots established in treeless shrubland. Regarding meteorological conditions, the simulations were carried out for situations characteristic of Galicia: wind speeds at 10 meters ranging between 0 and 28 km/h and dead fuel moisture between 4 and 20%. The results were initially evaluated for the set of the five predictive models and, subsequently, each model was evaluated separately, analysing the rates of spread according to the shrubland community, the fuel model assigned to the plot, the wind speed at 10 meters and the dead fuel moisture. Finally, these results were compared with those of the reference model, except for dead fuel moisture, which is not included in that model. In general, discrepancies are observed between the estimates of all models. It is important to highlight that the largest discrepancies correspond to the Rothermel (1972) model, which is the one most widely used at present. The model by Balbi et al (2020) and especially the model by Anderson et al (2015) are those that provide estimates most similar to those of the reference model by Vega et al (1998).
This Master’s Final Project consists of the analysis of five predictive models of surface fire rate of spread in order to establish a comparison among the estimates obtained, considering treeless shrubland communities and meteorological characteristics typical of Galicia. Three empirical models were used: Vega et al (1998), Fernandes (2001) and Anderson et al (2015); one physical model, Balbi et al (2020) and one semi-empirical model, Rothermel (1972). The model by Vega et al (1998) was chosen as the reference model to establish the comparisons, as it was developed from burn data on shrubland communities in Galicia. The equations were applied to a historical database (Vega et al, 2022) that includes destructive inventories of 673 plots established in treeless shrubland. Regarding meteorological conditions, the simulations were carried out for situations characteristic of Galicia: wind speeds at 10 meters ranging between 0 and 28 km/h and dead fuel moisture between 4 and 20%. The results were initially evaluated for the set of the five predictive models and, subsequently, each model was evaluated separately, analysing the rates of spread according to the shrubland community, the fuel model assigned to the plot, the wind speed at 10 meters and the dead fuel moisture. Finally, these results were compared with those of the reference model, except for dead fuel moisture, which is not included in that model. In general, discrepancies are observed between the estimates of all models. It is important to highlight that the largest discrepancies correspond to the Rothermel (1972) model, which is the one most widely used at present. The model by Balbi et al (2020) and especially the model by Anderson et al (2015) are those that provide estimates most similar to those of the reference model by Vega et al (1998).
Direction
RUIZ GONZALEZ, ANA DARIA (Tutorships)
ALVAREZ GONZALEZ, JUAN GABRIEL (Co-tutorships)
RUIZ GONZALEZ, ANA DARIA (Tutorships)
ALVAREZ GONZALEZ, JUAN GABRIEL (Co-tutorships)
Court
PEREZ CRUZADO, CESAR (Coordinator)
PEREZ CRUZADO, CESAR (Chairman)
DIEGUEZ ARANDA, ULISES (Secretary)
Rojo Alboreca, Alberto (Member)
PEREZ CRUZADO, CESAR (Coordinator)
PEREZ CRUZADO, CESAR (Chairman)
DIEGUEZ ARANDA, ULISES (Secretary)
Rojo Alboreca, Alberto (Member)
Analysis of greenhouse gas concentrations in fattening pig farms
Authorship
S.H.F.D.M.
Master's Degree in Agronomic Engineering
S.H.F.D.M.
Master's Degree in Agronomic Engineering
Defense date
02.03.2026 11:00
02.03.2026 11:00
Summary
The intensive pig farming sector has experienced remarkable growth in recent decades, generating environmental and animal welfare challenges, especially during the fattening phase, when greenhouse gas emissions are highest. Air quality and microclimatic conditions directly influence the health, behavior, and performance of fattening pigs, so it is essential to analyze the evolution of these variables throughout the production cycle to optimize environmental management. The objective of this study is to analyze the daily evolution of greenhouse gas concentrations (carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide) on a conventional pig fattening farm with natural ventilation, as well as their relationship with other environmental variables that control ventilation systems (outside temperature, inside temperature, and relative humidity) and with the level of animal activity, which is an indicator of animal welfare. The study was carried out during the fattening period, selecting three weeks in which the variables analyzed were recorded continuously. The results show a progressive decline in animal activity, associated with weight gain and reduced daylight hours. Initially, two daily peaks of activity are observed, which evolve into a single peak at the end of the period. The cosine model fits well with climatic variables and activity, although it does not capture small variations in periods of low activity. Gas concentrations show similar patterns, with daily peaks in the first weeks and stabilization in the last weeks, which makes it difficult to adjust the model. Overall, the results highlight the usefulness of jointly monitoring environmental variables and animal activity as a tool for improving farm management, contributing to the optimization of animal welfare and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions on pig farms.
The intensive pig farming sector has experienced remarkable growth in recent decades, generating environmental and animal welfare challenges, especially during the fattening phase, when greenhouse gas emissions are highest. Air quality and microclimatic conditions directly influence the health, behavior, and performance of fattening pigs, so it is essential to analyze the evolution of these variables throughout the production cycle to optimize environmental management. The objective of this study is to analyze the daily evolution of greenhouse gas concentrations (carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide) on a conventional pig fattening farm with natural ventilation, as well as their relationship with other environmental variables that control ventilation systems (outside temperature, inside temperature, and relative humidity) and with the level of animal activity, which is an indicator of animal welfare. The study was carried out during the fattening period, selecting three weeks in which the variables analyzed were recorded continuously. The results show a progressive decline in animal activity, associated with weight gain and reduced daylight hours. Initially, two daily peaks of activity are observed, which evolve into a single peak at the end of the period. The cosine model fits well with climatic variables and activity, although it does not capture small variations in periods of low activity. Gas concentrations show similar patterns, with daily peaks in the first weeks and stabilization in the last weeks, which makes it difficult to adjust the model. Overall, the results highlight the usefulness of jointly monitoring environmental variables and animal activity as a tool for improving farm management, contributing to the optimization of animal welfare and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions on pig farms.
Direction
FERNANDEZ RODRIGUEZ, MARIA DOLORES (Tutorships)
BESTEIRO DOVAL, ROBERTO (Co-tutorships)
FERNANDEZ RODRIGUEZ, MARIA DOLORES (Tutorships)
BESTEIRO DOVAL, ROBERTO (Co-tutorships)
Court
RODRIGUEZ RODRIGUEZ, MANUEL RAMIRO (Coordinator)
RODRIGUEZ RODRIGUEZ, MANUEL RAMIRO (Chairman)
CUESTA GARCIA, TOMAS SERAFIN (Secretary)
Fernández Rodríguez, María Elena (Member)
RODRIGUEZ RODRIGUEZ, MANUEL RAMIRO (Coordinator)
RODRIGUEZ RODRIGUEZ, MANUEL RAMIRO (Chairman)
CUESTA GARCIA, TOMAS SERAFIN (Secretary)
Fernández Rodríguez, María Elena (Member)
Plan for the prevention and defense against wildland fires, council of Trazo, province A Coruña.
Authorship
S.L.G.
Master's Degree in Forest Engineering
S.L.G.
Master's Degree in Forest Engineering
Defense date
02.19.2026 09:00
02.19.2026 09:00
Summary
The municipality of Trazo is a small municipality located in the interior of the province of A Coruña and has a population of approximately 3,000 inhabitants. Currently, forest fires are one of the most serious problems affecting Galicia year after year. For a region whose economy is based on the forestry sector, acting in the area of prevention and defense against forest fires is essential for the economic, social, and environmental development that today's society demands. Over the years, the abandonment of forests and the depopulation of rural areas have negatively impacted the occurrence of forest fires, making it a problem that requires urgent attention. This work aims to assess the risk of forest fires in the municipality of Trazo, as well as to propose a series of improvements aimed at the prevention and defense against forest fires, since according to Law 3/2007, of April 9, on the prevention and defense against forest fires in Galicia, it is the responsibility of the municipalities to prepare and approve the plans for the prevention and defense against forest fires. This work aims to assess the risk of forest fires in the municipality of Trazo, as well as to propose a series of improvements aimed at the prevention and defense against forest fires, since according to Law 3/2007, of April 9, on the prevention and defense against forest fires in Galicia, it is the responsibility of the municipalities to prepare and approve plans for the prevention and defense against forest fires.
The municipality of Trazo is a small municipality located in the interior of the province of A Coruña and has a population of approximately 3,000 inhabitants. Currently, forest fires are one of the most serious problems affecting Galicia year after year. For a region whose economy is based on the forestry sector, acting in the area of prevention and defense against forest fires is essential for the economic, social, and environmental development that today's society demands. Over the years, the abandonment of forests and the depopulation of rural areas have negatively impacted the occurrence of forest fires, making it a problem that requires urgent attention. This work aims to assess the risk of forest fires in the municipality of Trazo, as well as to propose a series of improvements aimed at the prevention and defense against forest fires, since according to Law 3/2007, of April 9, on the prevention and defense against forest fires in Galicia, it is the responsibility of the municipalities to prepare and approve the plans for the prevention and defense against forest fires. This work aims to assess the risk of forest fires in the municipality of Trazo, as well as to propose a series of improvements aimed at the prevention and defense against forest fires, since according to Law 3/2007, of April 9, on the prevention and defense against forest fires in Galicia, it is the responsibility of the municipalities to prepare and approve plans for the prevention and defense against forest fires.
Direction
MAREY PEREZ, MANUEL FRANCISCO (Tutorships)
MAREY PEREZ, MANUEL FRANCISCO (Tutorships)
Court
PEREZ CRUZADO, CESAR (Coordinator)
PEREZ CRUZADO, CESAR (Chairman)
Rojo Alboreca, Alberto (Secretary)
GARCÍA ARIAS, ANA ISABEL (Member)
PEREZ CRUZADO, CESAR (Coordinator)
PEREZ CRUZADO, CESAR (Chairman)
Rojo Alboreca, Alberto (Secretary)
GARCÍA ARIAS, ANA ISABEL (Member)
Development of a first technical economic model for chestnut production in Galicia
Authorship
A.V.L.L.
Master's Degree in Forest Engineering (2nd ed)
A.V.L.L.
Master's Degree in Forest Engineering (2nd ed)
Defense date
02.04.2026 09:00
02.04.2026 09:00
Summary
Galicia is the leading producer of chestnuts in Spain, so in order to move towards professionalization of the sector, it is essential to optimize and organize the work, as well as maximize the economic margin of this activity. In this regard, the use of tools that facilitate the work of producers is particularly important. One such tool is technical-economic models, which provide information on the set of activities that make up the production process of the good to be produced, as well as the costs involved in carrying out these activities. To contribute to this process, and in the absence of a specific model applied to the specific conditions of the Galician territory, this technical study carried out an exhaustive literature review, as well as establishing an experimental design in the field, in order to characterize and quantify both the yields and costs of the activities that make up the production process of obtaining chestnuts for fruit. Based on the information gathered in the literature review, and in combination with the measurements taken in the field, specific work units were created, which allow the costs corresponding to each stage to be quantified, as well as the time required for a worker to carry out the work. With its implementation in a technical-economic model, it became possible to simulate, based on the particular circumstances of each user, which activities should be carried out and to determine their possible productivity. Therefore, this work represents a further step in the optimization of the production process, as well as in the decision-making associated with it, such as the choice between different work techniques, allowing the user to choose the one that best suits their specific requirements.
Galicia is the leading producer of chestnuts in Spain, so in order to move towards professionalization of the sector, it is essential to optimize and organize the work, as well as maximize the economic margin of this activity. In this regard, the use of tools that facilitate the work of producers is particularly important. One such tool is technical-economic models, which provide information on the set of activities that make up the production process of the good to be produced, as well as the costs involved in carrying out these activities. To contribute to this process, and in the absence of a specific model applied to the specific conditions of the Galician territory, this technical study carried out an exhaustive literature review, as well as establishing an experimental design in the field, in order to characterize and quantify both the yields and costs of the activities that make up the production process of obtaining chestnuts for fruit. Based on the information gathered in the literature review, and in combination with the measurements taken in the field, specific work units were created, which allow the costs corresponding to each stage to be quantified, as well as the time required for a worker to carry out the work. With its implementation in a technical-economic model, it became possible to simulate, based on the particular circumstances of each user, which activities should be carried out and to determine their possible productivity. Therefore, this work represents a further step in the optimization of the production process, as well as in the decision-making associated with it, such as the choice between different work techniques, allowing the user to choose the one that best suits their specific requirements.
Direction
MAREY PEREZ, MANUEL FRANCISCO (Tutorships)
López Álvarez, Oscar (Co-tutorships)
MAREY PEREZ, MANUEL FRANCISCO (Tutorships)
López Álvarez, Oscar (Co-tutorships)
Court
PEREZ CRUZADO, CESAR (Coordinator)
PEREZ CRUZADO, CESAR (Chairman)
DIAZ VARELA, EMILIO RAFAEL (Secretary)
RODRIGUEZ RUIZ, JOEL (Member)
PEREZ CRUZADO, CESAR (Coordinator)
PEREZ CRUZADO, CESAR (Chairman)
DIAZ VARELA, EMILIO RAFAEL (Secretary)
RODRIGUEZ RUIZ, JOEL (Member)
Mapping of Populus spp. plantations using Sentinel-2 and Sentinel-1 imagery in the Esla river basin (León)
Authorship
F.M.F.
Master's Degree in Forest Engineering (2nd ed)
F.M.F.
Master's Degree in Forest Engineering (2nd ed)
Defense date
07.07.2026 09:30
07.07.2026 09:30
Summary
León province is the main poplar-producing area in Spain, with a particularly strong presence on the floodplains of the Esla River basin. Parcel fragmentation, short rotation cycles and the frequent succession of harvesting and replanting make it difficult to maintain accurate, up-to date maps. This study develops a reproducible methodology to map productive Populus spp. plantations, analyse their recent dynamics and produce a map of poplar plantations standing in 2024. The workflow integrated Sentinel-2 (S2) imagery, Sentinel-1 (S1) VH time series, reference cartography, cadastral data and ancillary geographical information. First, a 2017 vector map of poplar plantations was generated at cadastral parcel scale using supervised Random Forest (RF) classification, after comparison with k-NN, distinguishing adult, young and very young plantations. Based on this map, monthly S1 VH time series were analysed to identify harvest events between 2017 and 2024. Parcels harvested between 2017 and 2023 were then assessed using S2-derived NDVI and VH backscatter to identify replanting and assign age ranges. The 2017 map delineated 14,572 parcels and 11,032 ha classified as poplar. The poplar/non poplar differentiation reached an overall accuracy (OA) of 92.70% and an F1-score of 89.35. In the classification by stand-development stage, the adult class was the most robust, with a producer’s accuracy (PA) of 90.67% and an F1-score of 82.42, whereas the young stages showed greater uncertainty. Harvest detection reached an accuracy of 65.79% within a +- 90 day tolerance, affected by the temporal mismatch between the recorded harvest date and the cover loss detected in the VH time series. The 2024 map of standing poplar plantations included 12,604 parcels and 8,871 ha, with 4,795 replantings identified.
León province is the main poplar-producing area in Spain, with a particularly strong presence on the floodplains of the Esla River basin. Parcel fragmentation, short rotation cycles and the frequent succession of harvesting and replanting make it difficult to maintain accurate, up-to date maps. This study develops a reproducible methodology to map productive Populus spp. plantations, analyse their recent dynamics and produce a map of poplar plantations standing in 2024. The workflow integrated Sentinel-2 (S2) imagery, Sentinel-1 (S1) VH time series, reference cartography, cadastral data and ancillary geographical information. First, a 2017 vector map of poplar plantations was generated at cadastral parcel scale using supervised Random Forest (RF) classification, after comparison with k-NN, distinguishing adult, young and very young plantations. Based on this map, monthly S1 VH time series were analysed to identify harvest events between 2017 and 2024. Parcels harvested between 2017 and 2023 were then assessed using S2-derived NDVI and VH backscatter to identify replanting and assign age ranges. The 2017 map delineated 14,572 parcels and 11,032 ha classified as poplar. The poplar/non poplar differentiation reached an overall accuracy (OA) of 92.70% and an F1-score of 89.35. In the classification by stand-development stage, the adult class was the most robust, with a producer’s accuracy (PA) of 90.67% and an F1-score of 82.42, whereas the young stages showed greater uncertainty. Harvest detection reached an accuracy of 65.79% within a +- 90 day tolerance, affected by the temporal mismatch between the recorded harvest date and the cover loss detected in the VH time series. The 2024 map of standing poplar plantations included 12,604 parcels and 8,871 ha, with 4,795 replantings identified.
Direction
RODRÍGUEZ SOALLEIRO, ROQUE (Tutorships)
RODRÍGUEZ SOALLEIRO, ROQUE (Tutorships)
Court
PEREZ CRUZADO, CESAR (Coordinator)
PEREZ CRUZADO, CESAR (Chairman)
DIAZ VARELA, RAMON ALBERTO (Secretary)
DIEGUEZ ARANDA, ULISES (Member)
PEREZ CRUZADO, CESAR (Coordinator)
PEREZ CRUZADO, CESAR (Chairman)
DIAZ VARELA, RAMON ALBERTO (Secretary)
DIEGUEZ ARANDA, ULISES (Member)
Project for a Dairy Farm with 150 cows in Lesta (Ordes).
Authorship
E.M.L.
Master's Degree in Agronomic Engineering
E.M.L.
Master's Degree in Agronomic Engineering
Defense date
07.07.2026 11:30
07.07.2026 11:30
Summary
The project is carried out with the aim of producing milk for sale to the industry by a family farm through the installation of milking robots. The warehouse will be located in the parish of Lesta (Ordes) on a plot annexed to the farm, owned by the developer, it will have 120 Friesian animals in production and 30 dry cows, configuring a total of 150 heads. The warehouse will have dimensions of 40x85 m, with a structure made up of pillars, cambered beams, purlins and a gabled roof. The construction calculations, design and dimensioning of the electricity installation, fire protection installation, installation and sanitation and plumbing will be carried out in a complete manner. The details of the production process, machinery used and pertinent calculations will be included in the annexes to the report. The entire project was budgeted at €2,607,364.31 with a duration of 54 days.
The project is carried out with the aim of producing milk for sale to the industry by a family farm through the installation of milking robots. The warehouse will be located in the parish of Lesta (Ordes) on a plot annexed to the farm, owned by the developer, it will have 120 Friesian animals in production and 30 dry cows, configuring a total of 150 heads. The warehouse will have dimensions of 40x85 m, with a structure made up of pillars, cambered beams, purlins and a gabled roof. The construction calculations, design and dimensioning of the electricity installation, fire protection installation, installation and sanitation and plumbing will be carried out in a complete manner. The details of the production process, machinery used and pertinent calculations will be included in the annexes to the report. The entire project was budgeted at €2,607,364.31 with a duration of 54 days.
Direction
VAZQUEZ GONZALEZ, IBAN (Tutorships)
VAZQUEZ GONZALEZ, IBAN (Tutorships)
Court
RODRIGUEZ RODRIGUEZ, MANUEL RAMIRO (Coordinator)
RODRIGUEZ RODRIGUEZ, MANUEL RAMIRO (Chairman)
Fernández Rodríguez, María Elena (Secretary)
BESTEIRO DOVAL, ROBERTO (Member)
RODRIGUEZ RODRIGUEZ, MANUEL RAMIRO (Coordinator)
RODRIGUEZ RODRIGUEZ, MANUEL RAMIRO (Chairman)
Fernández Rodríguez, María Elena (Secretary)
BESTEIRO DOVAL, ROBERTO (Member)
Study for the development of a technical economic model for beekeeping farms in Galicia
Authorship
I.M.S.
Master's Degree in Agronomic Engineering
I.M.S.
Master's Degree in Agronomic Engineering
Defense date
02.03.2026 12:00
02.03.2026 12:00
Summary
Beekeeping plays a fundamental role from an environmental, social and economic point of view, especially in rural areas. In Galicia, this activity has a long historical tradition and, at present, the sector is mainly made up of small to medium-sized farms with a low level of professionalisation. This study develops a technical economic model of beekeeping production focused on honey production, with the aim of evaluating the viability of projects and decisions related to farm management practices. This model is based on the production processes defined for hive management and the use of work units developed from up-to-date market price information, resulting in costs based on the activities carried out and the unit cost per kilogram of honey produced. For its validation, data obtained through a survey of Galician beekeepers was used, from which a total of 70 valid responses were collected, allowing the productive structure of Galician farms to be characterised. The results show that unit costs are strongly influenced by productivity per hive, since most of the work in the apiary is accounted for by the number of hives. It is also observed that the start-up of larger farms takes place gradually, and newly established professional farms are not included due to the high initial investment associated with the acquisition of live material. This study provides a useful tool for quantifying the management costs associated with honey production in relation to the productive reality of Galicia.
Beekeeping plays a fundamental role from an environmental, social and economic point of view, especially in rural areas. In Galicia, this activity has a long historical tradition and, at present, the sector is mainly made up of small to medium-sized farms with a low level of professionalisation. This study develops a technical economic model of beekeeping production focused on honey production, with the aim of evaluating the viability of projects and decisions related to farm management practices. This model is based on the production processes defined for hive management and the use of work units developed from up-to-date market price information, resulting in costs based on the activities carried out and the unit cost per kilogram of honey produced. For its validation, data obtained through a survey of Galician beekeepers was used, from which a total of 70 valid responses were collected, allowing the productive structure of Galician farms to be characterised. The results show that unit costs are strongly influenced by productivity per hive, since most of the work in the apiary is accounted for by the number of hives. It is also observed that the start-up of larger farms takes place gradually, and newly established professional farms are not included due to the high initial investment associated with the acquisition of live material. This study provides a useful tool for quantifying the management costs associated with honey production in relation to the productive reality of Galicia.
Direction
MAREY PEREZ, MANUEL FRANCISCO (Tutorships)
López Álvarez, Oscar (Co-tutorships)
MAREY PEREZ, MANUEL FRANCISCO (Tutorships)
López Álvarez, Oscar (Co-tutorships)
Court
RODRIGUEZ RODRIGUEZ, MANUEL RAMIRO (Coordinator)
RODRIGUEZ RODRIGUEZ, MANUEL RAMIRO (Chairman)
CUESTA GARCIA, TOMAS SERAFIN (Secretary)
VAZQUEZ GONZALEZ, IBAN (Member)
RODRIGUEZ RODRIGUEZ, MANUEL RAMIRO (Coordinator)
RODRIGUEZ RODRIGUEZ, MANUEL RAMIRO (Chairman)
CUESTA GARCIA, TOMAS SERAFIN (Secretary)
VAZQUEZ GONZALEZ, IBAN (Member)
Study of methodological alternatives for the determination of carbon baselines for improved forest management projects based on Forest Management Plans.
Authorship
A.M.G.
Master's Degree in Forest Engineering
A.M.G.
Master's Degree in Forest Engineering
Defense date
02.04.2026 11:15
02.04.2026 11:15
Summary
Carbon markets are based on the offsetting of greenhouse gas emissions through projects that achieve net carbon sequestration or reduce emissions relative to a no-project scenario. Historically, these initiatives have focused on the reforestation of previously deforested areas. Following the Bali Conference of the Parties, the approach was expanded to include Improved Forest Management (IFM) projects, aimed at reducing net emissions or increasing carbon sequestration in existing forest stands. Subsequently, after the Paris Conference, IFM projects can be developed in Annex II countries of the Kyoto Protocol, increasing the need for appropriate tools to ensure their proper implementation. Within this framework, Forest Management Projects (FMPs) are essential, as they reflect long-term forest management and can enable the establishment of a Carbon Baseline (CB). The objective of this study was to identify the minimum contents that FMPs must include in order to establish this CB and ensure additionality in carbon sequestration. To this end, FMPs from six Communal Forest (CF) in the province of A Coruña were used, and a technical analysis was carried out. The results showed that the CB could not be established at the stand level and had to be defined at the forest level, due to the lack of inventory data and site index information. The CB was estimated according to the PP2 silvicultural model and the total above-ground biomass estimated for each CF. Based on this, delaying thinning operations and the final harvesting rotation was proposed in order to increase additionality, yielding positive results. Finally, it was concluded that appropriate forest management should consider the optimal rotation according to site productivity and maximize the service life of wood products in order to simultaneously optimize forest production and carbon sequestration.
Carbon markets are based on the offsetting of greenhouse gas emissions through projects that achieve net carbon sequestration or reduce emissions relative to a no-project scenario. Historically, these initiatives have focused on the reforestation of previously deforested areas. Following the Bali Conference of the Parties, the approach was expanded to include Improved Forest Management (IFM) projects, aimed at reducing net emissions or increasing carbon sequestration in existing forest stands. Subsequently, after the Paris Conference, IFM projects can be developed in Annex II countries of the Kyoto Protocol, increasing the need for appropriate tools to ensure their proper implementation. Within this framework, Forest Management Projects (FMPs) are essential, as they reflect long-term forest management and can enable the establishment of a Carbon Baseline (CB). The objective of this study was to identify the minimum contents that FMPs must include in order to establish this CB and ensure additionality in carbon sequestration. To this end, FMPs from six Communal Forest (CF) in the province of A Coruña were used, and a technical analysis was carried out. The results showed that the CB could not be established at the stand level and had to be defined at the forest level, due to the lack of inventory data and site index information. The CB was estimated according to the PP2 silvicultural model and the total above-ground biomass estimated for each CF. Based on this, delaying thinning operations and the final harvesting rotation was proposed in order to increase additionality, yielding positive results. Finally, it was concluded that appropriate forest management should consider the optimal rotation according to site productivity and maximize the service life of wood products in order to simultaneously optimize forest production and carbon sequestration.
Direction
ALVAREZ RODRIGUEZ, ESPERANZA (Tutorships)
RODRIGUEZ RUIZ, JOEL (Co-tutorships)
ALVAREZ RODRIGUEZ, ESPERANZA (Tutorships)
RODRIGUEZ RUIZ, JOEL (Co-tutorships)
Court
PEREZ CRUZADO, CESAR (Coordinator)
PEREZ CRUZADO, CESAR (Chairman)
Rojo Alboreca, Alberto (Secretary)
BARREIRO BUJÁN, ANA ISABEL (Member)
PEREZ CRUZADO, CESAR (Coordinator)
PEREZ CRUZADO, CESAR (Chairman)
Rojo Alboreca, Alberto (Secretary)
BARREIRO BUJÁN, ANA ISABEL (Member)
Influence of vegetation cover on soil properties: Al chemistry and microbial activity
Authorship
A.O.C.
Master's Degree in Forest Engineering
A.O.C.
Master's Degree in Forest Engineering
Defense date
02.04.2026 10:30
02.04.2026 10:30
Summary
In western Asturias, the valley and mountains of the Navia River basin constitute a distinctly rural area, where the working population is closely linked to the primary sector. This area features frequent mosaic landscapes, mainly consisting of forest cover (woodland, acidophilic scrubland, and forest plantations) and agricultural areas, especially meadows. This Master's Thesis analyses the characteristics of different soils in the study area under different vegetation covers: meadow, scrub, oak forest, Scots pine and radiata pine, developed on slate. The aim is to understand the influence of different vegetation covers and their management on different soil parameters. To this end, general soil analyses are carried out, solid-phase Al fractionation is performed, and Al and organic matter in solution and biological parameters linked to microbial activity are also determined. The soils analysed are acidic (pH under 5), rich in Al, with a high organic matter content (more than 7%) and low fertility. The homogeneity of these parameters among the different soils could explain the few significant differences obtained in most parameters. Only meadow soils have significantly higher values of Ca, CICe and available P, together with lower contents of exchangeable Al and lower Al saturation, which is attributed to the application of granulated lime every 5 years. In all cases, aluminium is mainly bound to organic matter (Alp), with highly stable complexes (Alpcu) predominating. Overall, the results indicate that there is no significant relationship between the different vegetation covers studied and the physicochemical and biological properties of the soils that support them.
In western Asturias, the valley and mountains of the Navia River basin constitute a distinctly rural area, where the working population is closely linked to the primary sector. This area features frequent mosaic landscapes, mainly consisting of forest cover (woodland, acidophilic scrubland, and forest plantations) and agricultural areas, especially meadows. This Master's Thesis analyses the characteristics of different soils in the study area under different vegetation covers: meadow, scrub, oak forest, Scots pine and radiata pine, developed on slate. The aim is to understand the influence of different vegetation covers and their management on different soil parameters. To this end, general soil analyses are carried out, solid-phase Al fractionation is performed, and Al and organic matter in solution and biological parameters linked to microbial activity are also determined. The soils analysed are acidic (pH under 5), rich in Al, with a high organic matter content (more than 7%) and low fertility. The homogeneity of these parameters among the different soils could explain the few significant differences obtained in most parameters. Only meadow soils have significantly higher values of Ca, CICe and available P, together with lower contents of exchangeable Al and lower Al saturation, which is attributed to the application of granulated lime every 5 years. In all cases, aluminium is mainly bound to organic matter (Alp), with highly stable complexes (Alpcu) predominating. Overall, the results indicate that there is no significant relationship between the different vegetation covers studied and the physicochemical and biological properties of the soils that support them.
Direction
ALVAREZ RODRIGUEZ, ESPERANZA (Tutorships)
FERNANDEZ SANJURJO, MARIA JOSEFA (Co-tutorships)
BARREIRO BUJÁN, ANA ISABEL (Co-tutorships)
ALVAREZ RODRIGUEZ, ESPERANZA (Tutorships)
FERNANDEZ SANJURJO, MARIA JOSEFA (Co-tutorships)
BARREIRO BUJÁN, ANA ISABEL (Co-tutorships)
Court
PEREZ CRUZADO, CESAR (Coordinator)
PEREZ CRUZADO, CESAR (Chairman)
RODRIGUEZ RUIZ, JOEL (Secretary)
CARRAL VILARIÑO, EMILIO V. (Member)
PEREZ CRUZADO, CESAR (Coordinator)
PEREZ CRUZADO, CESAR (Chairman)
RODRIGUEZ RUIZ, JOEL (Secretary)
CARRAL VILARIÑO, EMILIO V. (Member)
Analysis of the physical properties of mature eucalyptus globulus labill. Wood and its influence on wine maturation using different chips
Authorship
H.R.R.
Master's Degree in Forest Engineering
H.R.R.
Master's Degree in Forest Engineering
Defense date
02.04.2026 09:45
02.04.2026 09:45
Summary
The presence of Eucalyptus globulus Labill. in the northwestern Iberian Peninsula constitutes a forestry reality of undeniable socioeconomic relevance. However, the management of these stands generates a large volume of mature wood which, due to its heartwood formation, encounters limitations for its integration into the cellulose industry. This causes a deficient valorization of the raw material, which exposes the urgent challenge of exploring new market niches that provide high added value. The present research determines the technological and enological aptitude of mature Eucalyptus globulus Labill. The experimental methodology addressed two complementary lines of work: the physical characterization of 335 specimens under UNE standards and the evaluation of the interaction kinetics of the wood with wine through a contact assay with different chip formats over 90 days. The results of the physical characterization define a high-density wood, with a mean value of 0.65 g/cm3 (rising to 0.79 g/cm3 at 12% moisture content). Likewise, a mean volumetric shrinkage of 17.75% and an anisotropy coefficient of 1.66 were recorded, parameters that condition its use in traditional cooperage due to drying requirements. In the chemical field, the interaction with the wood induced a deep transformation of the wine matrix. After 90 days, treatments with a higher dose (chips 10 g/L) increased the Total Polyphenol Index and Color Intensity by 54% and 56% compared to the control wine, significantly consuming free SO2 and confirming a rapid and potent extraction kinetics. This study concludes that mature Eucalyptus globulus Labill., considered a by-product, represents a possible alternative for wine aging. The data obtained support its technical viability, offering the wine sector an opportunity to diversify its utilizations towards innovative markets.
The presence of Eucalyptus globulus Labill. in the northwestern Iberian Peninsula constitutes a forestry reality of undeniable socioeconomic relevance. However, the management of these stands generates a large volume of mature wood which, due to its heartwood formation, encounters limitations for its integration into the cellulose industry. This causes a deficient valorization of the raw material, which exposes the urgent challenge of exploring new market niches that provide high added value. The present research determines the technological and enological aptitude of mature Eucalyptus globulus Labill. The experimental methodology addressed two complementary lines of work: the physical characterization of 335 specimens under UNE standards and the evaluation of the interaction kinetics of the wood with wine through a contact assay with different chip formats over 90 days. The results of the physical characterization define a high-density wood, with a mean value of 0.65 g/cm3 (rising to 0.79 g/cm3 at 12% moisture content). Likewise, a mean volumetric shrinkage of 17.75% and an anisotropy coefficient of 1.66 were recorded, parameters that condition its use in traditional cooperage due to drying requirements. In the chemical field, the interaction with the wood induced a deep transformation of the wine matrix. After 90 days, treatments with a higher dose (chips 10 g/L) increased the Total Polyphenol Index and Color Intensity by 54% and 56% compared to the control wine, significantly consuming free SO2 and confirming a rapid and potent extraction kinetics. This study concludes that mature Eucalyptus globulus Labill., considered a by-product, represents a possible alternative for wine aging. The data obtained support its technical viability, offering the wine sector an opportunity to diversify its utilizations towards innovative markets.
Direction
DIAZ-MAROTO HIDALGO, IGNACIO JAVIER (Tutorships)
CONDE FERNANDEZ, ADRIANA (Co-tutorships)
DIAZ-MAROTO HIDALGO, IGNACIO JAVIER (Tutorships)
CONDE FERNANDEZ, ADRIANA (Co-tutorships)
Court
PEREZ CRUZADO, CESAR (Coordinator)
PEREZ CRUZADO, CESAR (Chairman)
Riesco Muñoz, Guillermo (Secretary)
GUAITA FERNANDEZ, MANUEL (Member)
PEREZ CRUZADO, CESAR (Coordinator)
PEREZ CRUZADO, CESAR (Chairman)
Riesco Muñoz, Guillermo (Secretary)
GUAITA FERNANDEZ, MANUEL (Member)
technical analysis-economic of the exploitations of races of autochthonous bovine livestock of galicia in danger of extinction in the province of ourense
Authorship
Á.F.R.R.
Master's Degree in Agronomic Engineering
Á.F.R.R.
Master's Degree in Agronomic Engineering
Defense date
07.07.2026 12:30
07.07.2026 12:30
Summary
Words Key: Races, autochthonous, conservation, censuses, exploitations, tax, replacement This work has by object the analysis of the exploitations of the province of Ourense dthe five bovine races autochthonous of Galicia in danger of extinction, some races that characterized of a triple aptitude: force motriz, flesh and milk. In the year 1975, initiates in the Center of Fontefiz a program of improvement of the Dark races of the Northwest, that englobaba to the races recognized to official level how originarias of Galicia, Cachena, Caldelá, Frieiresa, Limiá and Vianesa, and to two of Castilla-León, Sayaguesa and Alistano-Sanabresa. It analyzed the evolution of the censuses of each race to evaluate his current situation, take the criteria of the FAO to be able to classify the risks of a race, and related the conservation of these races of bovine with the conservation of in environment. They describe the programs of conservation of the autochthonous races, and did a populational characterization and the evolution of the censuses of each race. It describes the general situation of the sector of bovine of meat in Galicia, and characterize the exploitations that have bovine races in danger of extinction in the province of Ourense, take the age of the person title of the exploitation, the number of exploitations by size of the herd and by the economic helps that receive. The analysis of the degree of threat in the exploitations studied did by means of study it of the tax of replacement of the 75 exploitations of the autochthonous races in danger of extinction studied, and relating the degree of threat with the size of the herds.
Words Key: Races, autochthonous, conservation, censuses, exploitations, tax, replacement This work has by object the analysis of the exploitations of the province of Ourense dthe five bovine races autochthonous of Galicia in danger of extinction, some races that characterized of a triple aptitude: force motriz, flesh and milk. In the year 1975, initiates in the Center of Fontefiz a program of improvement of the Dark races of the Northwest, that englobaba to the races recognized to official level how originarias of Galicia, Cachena, Caldelá, Frieiresa, Limiá and Vianesa, and to two of Castilla-León, Sayaguesa and Alistano-Sanabresa. It analyzed the evolution of the censuses of each race to evaluate his current situation, take the criteria of the FAO to be able to classify the risks of a race, and related the conservation of these races of bovine with the conservation of in environment. They describe the programs of conservation of the autochthonous races, and did a populational characterization and the evolution of the censuses of each race. It describes the general situation of the sector of bovine of meat in Galicia, and characterize the exploitations that have bovine races in danger of extinction in the province of Ourense, take the age of the person title of the exploitation, the number of exploitations by size of the herd and by the economic helps that receive. The analysis of the degree of threat in the exploitations studied did by means of study it of the tax of replacement of the 75 exploitations of the autochthonous races in danger of extinction studied, and relating the degree of threat with the size of the herds.
Direction
GARCÍA ARIAS, ANA ISABEL (Tutorships)
GARCÍA ARIAS, ANA ISABEL (Tutorships)
Court
RODRIGUEZ RODRIGUEZ, MANUEL RAMIRO (Coordinator)
RODRIGUEZ RODRIGUEZ, MANUEL RAMIRO (Chairman)
VAZQUEZ GONZALEZ, IBAN (Secretary)
DIAZ VARELA, EMILIO RAFAEL (Member)
RODRIGUEZ RODRIGUEZ, MANUEL RAMIRO (Coordinator)
RODRIGUEZ RODRIGUEZ, MANUEL RAMIRO (Chairman)
VAZQUEZ GONZALEZ, IBAN (Secretary)
DIAZ VARELA, EMILIO RAFAEL (Member)