The Councillor Narvay Quintero and the President of the Cabildo, Oswaldo Betancort, emphasised the importance of citizen collaboration in protecting the island’s viticultural heritage.
Informative Session on Vine Pest Management
The Cabildo of Lanzarote hosted the third informative session on the detection and prevention of vine phylloxera today. This event was organised by the Government of the Canary Islands in partnership with the island’s authorities. The meeting saw the participation of the Councillor of Agriculture, Livestock, Fishing, and Food Sovereignty, Narvay Quintero, along with the President of the Cabildo, Oswaldo Betancort, and other key figures from the viticultural and environmental sectors.
Coordinated Efforts Needed
Quintero highlighted that “only through a coordinated approach can we control and eradicate this pest and safeguard our viticultural heritage.” He noted that there have been 4,042 surveys conducted across the Canary Islands, with 66 positive locations already treated or eradicated.
Betancort added, “The viticulture of Lanzarote is an economic, cultural, and tourist driving force that distinguishes us globally. Phylloxera poses a real risk to a farming model that has defined our history and supports many families.”
Continuing Educational Initiatives
The sessions, aimed at both industry professionals and the public, will continue until 6 October on other islands, including Gran Canaria and La Palma. Topics covered will include control measures such as restrictions on the movement of grapes, vinification tools, management of organic waste, and official inspection protocols.
Call for Collective Responsibility
Both officials made a call for collective collaboration, emphasising that preventing phylloxera is a societal commitment vital for protecting the vinicultural traditions and economy of the islands.
