The green pastures covering the island’s ridge feed dairy cattle — the backbone of modern Jorgean economy. Milk supplies the dairies of São Jorge DOP cheese; beef and by-products complete the agricultural cycle.
Working landscape
Stone walls, water troughs, jeep tracks and pens mark the high ground. Atlantic weather keeps grass for much of the year, but wind and rain demand resilience. On the fajãs, cattle are less dominant; vine and vegetables lead.
Pastoral culture
Rural life is not only production: it is identity. Many islanders measure time by milking, fairs and the state of pastures after a wet winter.