Community Engagement for Environmental Management in Fuerteventura
On February 9th, 2023, Sergio Lloret, the President of the Cabildo of Fuerteventura, and Celino Umpiérrez, the Tourism Councilor for La Oliva, held an open meeting with local residents, associations, and community groups. The focus of this gathering was to discuss preliminary drafts of the Plans for the Management of Natural Resources (PORN) and the Management Plans (PRUG) for the protected natural parks of Dunas de Corralejo and Isla de Lobos. This initiative is aimed at gathering feedback from the community to enrich these crucial planning documents.
The Need for Resource Management Plans
One of the core reasons for this meeting was the lack of a comprehensive management plan for the various natural and rural parks on the island. Recognizing this shortcoming, the Cabildo has embarked on creating regulatory frameworks essential for both the preservation of these ecosystems and the regulated use of these natural spaces. “We wish we had done this sooner,” President Lloret remarked. “There were fourteen, and now there are fifteen planning instruments being developed by our Territorial Planning Service. It has been a long process, but they are finally underway.”
The primary aim of these forthcoming documents is twofold: to safeguard the natural environments of Fuerteventura while also adapting the spatial planning to align with the current legislative framework. This dual approach seeks to strike a balance between conserving unique ecosystems and allowing public enjoyment of areas like Dunas de Corralejo and Isla de Lobos. Lloret emphasized that these management plans are critical in addressing a “situation of total legal uncertainty” that has needed attention.
Addressing Local Concerns
During the meeting, local residents raised several important issues, particularly concerning the conservation of historical homes in Puertito de Isla de Lobos, which have come under scrutiny due to the Coastal Law. Lloret acknowledged the significance of these houses as part of Fuerteventura’s historical heritage. The drafting team has been tasked with researching their history, confirming their potential designation as an area of ethnographic interest due to their historical value.
Another pressing topic for attendees was the status of the “carretera de las Dunas,” a road recently removed from the Insular Road Network. “I will stop calling it a road,” Lloret stated firmly, expressing that while it should no longer be categorized as such, there is a compelling need to maintain it as an internal path within the natural park, allowing for access and enjoyment of the beaches and surrounding spaces.
Balancing Conservation with Recreation
Community members also voiced concerns about how the natural park is used by visitors, especially during peak tourist seasons. Activities like sports and events can strain the delicate ecosystems in the area. Lloret assured attendees that attention will be given to various sporting, cultural, and event activities, which had previously been overlooked in the existing PRUG.
Tourism Councilor Umpiérrez shared the municipality’s particular focus on two significant events: the Half Marathon and the International Kite Festival, both held in the Dunas de Corralejo. Lloret confirmed that these events are being considered in the ongoing discussions, encouraging attendees to raise any specific issues or ideas regarding the management plans. This, he stated, was the very purpose of the meeting.
Future Planning Efforts
Other issues already flagged for attention include the need to protect the Roman ruins at Playa de La Concha, improve the network of walking trails, and enhance visitor facilities. An essential aspect of the planning process is ensuring that the area’s carrying capacity is respected, thereby balancing commercial activities while preserving local life and the surrounding ecosystem.
“The process has been challenging, but thankfully, things are finally moving forward,” remarked Lloret about the development of these management plans. The drafts will remain open for public consultation until February 13th, allowing residents to share their thoughts and insights. Both Lloret and Umpiérrez urged community members to communicate any concerns or suggestions, whether directly to the Cabildo or through the La Oliva municipality, ensuring that local voices are integral to the future planning framework.
