Historic Project for the Renaturalization of Jandía’s Saladar

The General Directorate of Coasts and Management of the Maritime Space in the Canary Islands has granted the Cabildo of Fuerteventura permission to execute an important project aimed at the renaturalization of the Saladar de Jandía. This groundbreaking initiative not only entails decommissioning the old wastewater treatment plant situated on Playa del Matorral, but also focuses on the restoration of the natural environment with the introduction of native plant species.

A Historic Approval

This approval signifies a historic moment for the region, as it marks a critical step in the comprehensive management of protected natural spaces. The project is particularly significant given that it involves moving substantial amounts of earth in a protected area. The plan includes reducing the current elevation from +3.36 meters to a natural level of +2.50 meters. This equates to the removal of approximately 2,367.43 cubic meters of soil, of which 719.18 cubic meters will be reused for subsequent filling.

Environmental Significance

The efforts undertaken in this project are manifold. Spearheaded by the Infrastructure Department of the Cabildo, the renaturalization project is set to revitalize an area that holds immense ecological importance. The Saladar de Jandía is the only wetland in the Canary Islands that is part of the Ramsar Convention—an international agreement focused on the conservation of vital wetlands around the globe. The restoration will not only enhance the habitat for local flora and fauna but will also serve as a significant conservation reference point.

Restoration Goals

The project aims to restore the area’s natural appearance and ecological integrity. It has a projected timeline of one year and involves meticulous labor to ensure ecological balance is achieved post-demolition. The local government recognizes the necessity of returning this iconic natural space to its original state. Lola García, the President of the Cabildo, underscored the environmental significance of the wetland and the urgent need for its protection. “Our goal is to preserve its environmental value, which is notable and needs immediate attention,” she stated.

Community Support

The project comes with the strong backing of the Pájara City Council, reflecting a unified effort in environmental stewardship. Local leaders believe that this undertaking signifies a victory for both the residents of Morro Jable and the broader community. Blas Acosta, the Infrastructure Counselor, expressed pride in the successful negotiations with the Coastal Authority, asserting that the citizens should feel honorable about advancing such a challenging but essential initiative.

Hydrogeomorphological Recovery

In terms of its scientific approach, the intervention is designed to facilitate the geomorphological recovery of the area once occupied by the former treatment plant. Following the demolition, the Resolution by the Coasts authority mandates the revegetation of the land using indigenous plant species. Key species to be planted include Chenoleoides tomentosa, Salsola vermiculata, Tetraena fontanesii, and Tamarix canariensis. This careful selection of vegetation aims to recreate the natural flora that historically thrived in the region.

Legal Framework and Environmental Compliance

The project complies with the provisions of the Coastal Law, which enables the natural restoration of the existing wetland. This adherence is crucial not only for the protection and conservation of the area but also involves ensuring the integrity of the Public Maritime-Terrestrial Domain. Such measures underline the project’s commitment to environmental laws, demonstrating that it has been developed in accordance with statutory guidelines.

In summary, the renaturalization of the Saladar de Jandía represents a significant investment in Fuerteventura’s environmental future, showcasing the commitment of local authorities towards restoring precious natural ecosystems while ensuring community engagement and adherence to conservation laws.