VALVERDE (EL HIERRO), 6 Sep. (EUROPA PRESS) –
The Cabildo of El Hierro, via its Rural and Marine Environment department, is developing a new initiative aimed at the planting and restoration of fig trees, with a budget allocation of €100,000, as part of the institution’s Strategic Subsidy Plan for 2024-2025.
The area’s regional councillor, David Cabrera, has stated that this initiative aims to rejuvenate the agricultural sector in El Hierro and support the conservation of the natural environment.
“Many plots inherited from our parents and grandparents lie neglected. We must encourage rural activities to sustain our traditions, preserve our island’s landscape, and uphold the countryside lifestyle,” he remarked in a statement.
Cabrera further emphasises that the island’s institution has been advocating for this crop for several years.
Indeed, he notes that “in 2021, advice was sought by farmers for the maintenance of these trees and over 1,000 fig trees were planted.”
The Rural and Marine Environment Department has revealed that two lines of action will be implemented: the planting of new fig trees and the restoration of existing ones.
In both situations, the promotion of local varieties will be ensured, with the objective of safeguarding the island’s agricultural heritage.
For new plantations, preparations will include land preparation, the planting of saplings, as well as the installation of drip irrigation systems.
Regarding the rehabilitation of existing crops, funds will be allocated for rejuvenation efforts, which will include pruning, clearing, and tilling the soil, with the aim of enhancing productivity and revitalising operational farms.
For centuries, the cultivation of figs has been a vital component of the island’s economy.
Historical records indicate that a significant portion of the production was processed into dried figs, highly valued for their longevity and ease of transport. Notably, the region of El Pinar emerged as the primary area for producing and exporting this fruit.
According to figures from the Canary Islands Statistics Institute (Istac), the area designated for fig tree cultivation in El Hierro currently spans 208 hectares. El Pinar boasts the largest area, covering 182.3 hectares, followed by Valverde with 20 hectares, and Frontera with 5.7 hectares dedicated to this type of fruit tree.
