The residents of the Anaga massif are adamant about not proceeding without dedicated teams for the removal of exotic flora, species that have overrun a significant portion of the Rural Park. They lament that “there is no designated budget from the Cabildo to provide the Rural Park with permanent staff responsible for putting an end to this proliferation,” according to the local community.
Neighbourhood Associations of AFUR, BLACK ROQUE OR TABENO have expressed their frustration at witnessing these invasive species climbing trees until they become entirely desiccated. Additionally, they highlight the alarming presence of the cat tail, which dominates 90% of the summit in certain areas and has encroached upon the asphalt along the historic route of the English peak.
While environmental volunteer initiatives have taken place in the region with a focus on managing invasive species, the inhabitants of the rural settlements are calling for a permanent team in this battle against exotic plants. “If necessary, we will carry banners to El Cabildo demanding dedicated exotic teams for Anaga, as these species are decimating the native flora and no action is being taken,” the residents assert.
They further remark that “even though environmental volunteers occasionally come to assist, which we appreciate, this does not ensure a solution to a problem as critical as the one facing the rural park due to the alarming spread of exotic species. Furthermore, the council has a skilled team of climbers that performs commendable work, but there is a need to create additional support teams and allocate them regularly to maintain the area.”
Moreover, those affected note that “when we began to protest, the Cabildo dispatched specific teams from across the island, but these crews are unrelated to the budget for Anaga, resolving the issue only temporarily. However, they are not specialised permanent workers, which is what we have been requesting for over three years.”
