The recent wildfire that has affected the Serra d’Espadà It has had significant environmental consequences, but it has also had a major impact on agricultural activity in the area. Beyond the recovery of the forest, the sector insists that it will be essential to support farmers, ranchers, and beekeepers to prevent many farms from disappearing permanently.
In this context, LA UNIÓ Llauradora i Ramadera has asked the Valencian Regional Government to launch a Plan Extraordinario de Recuperación Agraria, Ganadera y Ambiental, with the aim of helping affected farms and preventing the abandonment of rural areas.
Urgent support to prevent rural depopulation
The agricultural organization points out that the effects of a fire do not end when the flames are extinguished. Many woody crops, such as citrus fruits, olive trees, almond trees, and cork oaks will take years to regain their productive capacity, while numerous agricultural infrastructure facilities have also sustained damage.
For this reason, the proposed plan includes various support measures, including:
- Direct aid for affected farms.
- Compensation for lost income during the recovery period.
- Reconstruction of agricultural infrastructure.
- Specific support for extensive livestock farming and beekeeping.
- Tax and financial benefits.
- Greater flexibility in the implementation of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).
Agriculture: A Tool for Preventing Future Fires
Representatives of the sector point out that maintaining active agriculture and livestock farming also contributes to landscape conservation and the prevention of large forest fires.
Farms help keep the countryside clean, generate economic activity, and help retain the population in rural areas. Therefore, preventing rural depopulation also means investing in a safer and more sustainable environment for the future.
A challenge that affects the entire region
The revitalization of the Serra d’Espadà represents an opportunity to strengthen our commitment to rural areas and to those who work every day to keep the Valencian countryside alive.
At Cocalni, we want to express our support for all the farmers, ranchers, and residents affected, as we are convinced that the region’s recovery must be accompanied by the necessary support for those who make it possible for our fields to continue producing high-quality food.
You can read the original article published by LA UNIÓ Llauradora i Ramadera.
