Across the Algarve, stone pines (Pinus pinea) are a familiar feature of the landscape. Their … pine nuts have traditionally provided a valuable source of income. But in the more than 42,000 hectares of stone pine many trees produce few pine cones, leaving landowners with limited financial returns. Forestry organisations are now examining another possibility: collecting the resin produced naturally by the trees. …The connection between resin and wildfire prevention is indirect – but potentially significant. Forests that generate income give landowners a stronger financial incentive to manage them. Resin collection requires regular access to the trees, ongoing maintenance in woodland areas. …That matters in a region where rural fires can spread rapidly through poorly maintained vegetation. The proposed benefit comes from better land management… The opportunity is promising, but the economics are not yet established. …If resin harvesting proves commercially viable, it could offer landowners another reason to maintain their pine forests.