Restoration of Terrestrial Ecosystems in Fuerteventura
The Cabildo de Fuerteventura is continuing its ambitious project to restore terrestrial ecosystems through vital works executed by the Department of Environment at the Biological Station of La Oliva. This initiative seeks to revive the native flora and improve infrastructures aimed at propagating indigenous plant species.
Major Developments Underway
Among the ongoing projects, the construction of a multi-tunnel greenhouse spanning 3,224.50 square meters stands out. This facility is specifically designed to optimize the acquisition and maintenance of native species for propagation. Additionally, a supplementary storage and substrate preparation facility, covering 237.50 square meters, will enhance operational efficiency.
The project further encompasses the establishment of a germplasm bank measuring 2,626 square meters. This bank will serve as a repository for seeds and cuttings, acting as a showcase for insular flora. Reforestation activities are also scheduled to take place in Castillo de Lara, located within the municipality of Betancuria.
A Vision for the Future
Carlos Rodríguez, the Environment Minister, emphasized the importance of these initiatives: “Protecting and recovering our ecosystems is an investment in the future of Fuerteventura. This project allows us to bring life back to our native flora and ensure the island’s biodiversity, positioning the Biological Station as a benchmark for conservation and sustainability.”
These initiatives are supported by funding from the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan (PRTR), which is funded through Next Generation EU resources. Specifically, these activities fall under component four, investment three, managed by the Department of Ecological Transition and Energy of the Government of the Canary Islands.
Ongoing Improvements at the Biological Station
In late October 2025, Fuerteventura’s Cabildo began various enhancements aimed at optimizing the Biological Station’s facilities. These improvements focus on accessibility, the creation of shaded areas, and updating primary infrastructure throughout the site.
An exciting addition includes the integration of a QR code system within the gardens, offering visitors information on the various plant species. Alongside this, construction commenced on a new greenhouse, under the auspices of the Government of the Canary Islands, aimed at broadening the capabilities for conservation and research on indigenous and endemic flora.
Fostering Environmental Education
The ongoing enhancements are part of a broader initiative by the Cabildo to promote environmental education and conserve natural resources. New developments in the gardens and access paths at the Biological Station also reflect this commitment.
In early October, new work commenced, part of the “Fuerteventura, Beautiful by Nature” program, focusing on the rehabilitation of green spaces in the wildlife area, renewal of the irrigation system, and construction of a wall along the educational garden’s interior pathway. Concurrently, previous works initiated in August are also in progress, which include the introduction of accessible routes through the educational garden and new shaded areas throughout the station.
Gardens and Accessibility Enhancements
A visual glimpse of the Biological Station’s gardens reveals the potential transformation. The station features vital functions for recovering wild flora and fauna and includes facilities like a necropsy room and an educational classroom.
In line with the earlier mentioned improvements, enhancements aimed at making the Biological Station more accessible encompass new shaded areas, the installation of pergolas, and a path leading through the Canarian Garden to the Nature Classroom. These efforts contribute to an overarching initiative, planned for 2024-2025, that includes a total investment of four million euros for approximately one hundred conservation and enhancement actions.
Continued Upgrades Since August 2025
Work at the Biological Station began in mid-August 2025 as part of the comprehensive “Fuerteventura, Beautiful by Nature” program. This venture includes improvements to parking facilities, adjacent land near the storage area, open spaces by the white tamarisk, and areas designated for displaying the Canarian Garden.
The project has three main components: installation of new shaded zones through pergolas, accessible pathways leading from the Canarian Garden to the Nature Classroom, and preparing land for new parking facilities, which includes cleaning, leveling, filling, and compacting the area.
These efforts highlight the ongoing commitment to enhancing, conserving, and beautifying various locations across the island, aligning with the broader goals of environmental sustainability and education.
