COAG Calls for Action on Abandoned Farmlands in the Canary Islands

The Coordinator of Agrarian and Livestock Organisations (COAG) of the Canary Islands has demanded the implementation of both supportive and punitive measures to ensure that abandoned plots of land in the archipelago meet minimum maintenance standards. This is essential to prevent the spread of pests and wild animals.

In a statement, COAG also noted that abandoned cultivation areas contribute to the onset and spread of wildfires. They stressed the need for competent authorities, particularly the island councils and local councils, to take action.

Responsibilities of Municipalities

According to the agrarian organisation, it is crucial for municipalities to be informed about the location and condition of abandoned farms. They should proactively compel landowners to clean and maintain their properties, invoking coercive measures against those who fail to comply.

Current Agricultural Statistics

Recent data from the Government of the Canary Islands, covering the years 2020-2024, indicates that 62.44% of the usable agricultural land on the islands is currently abandoned. This translates to over 76,000 hectares that have potential for cultivation but are not being utilised for agricultural activity.

Of these uncultivated areas, more than 8,000 hectares (specifically 8,101) are classified as recently abandoned. In Tenerife, there are 3,255.81 hectares that have fallen into disuse in recent years, while Gran Canaria accounts for 1,776.21 hectares.

Consequences of Abandonment

COAG highlights that the repercussions of this neglect are evident in the emergence and spread of the phylloxera pest on the island of Tenerife, along with an increase in birds, rodents, and feral animals. These groups are causing significant damage to the crops of active farmers.

The article “COAG demands compensatory and punitive measures for the upkeep of abandoned farms” first appeared in El Apurón.