Tenerife Cabildo Takes Decisive Action Against Phylloxera Threat to Vineyards

In a proactive response to the looming threat of phylloxera, the Tenerife Cabildo convened an extraordinary plenary session on Friday. This urgent meeting was called to discuss and implement immediate measures aimed at safeguarding the island’s vineyards, which are vital to the local economy and cultural heritage.

Understanding the Phylloxera Situation in Tenerife

During the session, President Rosa Dávila articulated her deep concerns regarding the potential ramifications of phylloxera on the island’s viticulture. She emphasized that the full extent of the infestation remains largely unknown, suggesting that the problem may still be in its nascent stages. Dávila pointed out the significant gap in research concerning the pest’s spread within the Canary Islands, stating, “We are facing a plague whose impact we do not yet understand, neither within Tenerife nor across the entire Canary Islands.” Recent analyses have confirmed the presence of phylloxera in the vines, although it has not yet been detected in the roots, a critical aspect that could influence the severity of the outbreak.

Comprehensive Survey Efforts and Findings

As part of the ongoing response to this agricultural crisis, a total of 2,901 technical surveys have been conducted across 29 municipalities. These efforts have led to the identification of 60 confirmed cases of phylloxera. Most of these cases are associated with individual plants, with only a handful involving multiple plants. Dávila reassured the public that these outbreaks are currently under technical control and being effectively managed. She highlighted the collaborative efforts among various stakeholders, including the Cabildo, local councils, the Government of the Canary Islands, and the Spanish Government, emphasizing the necessity of unity in tackling this pressing issue. The timeline of actions has been notably swift, with the pest being identified on July 30, confirmed on August 12, and subsequent measures initiated shortly thereafter.

Regulatory Measures and Preventive Actions

In light of the phylloxera threat, the Ministry of Agriculture has enacted a stringent order prohibiting the import and transit of seed grapes to the Canary Islands, allowing exceptions only for grapes from pest-free countries and under rigorous inspection protocols. Over 20 meetings have been convened to address the situation, with special recognition given to the Civil Guard and Seprona for their diligent efforts in monitoring the movement of plant materials and grapes during the critical harvest season.

Strategic Initiatives for Future Resilience

Among the strategic initiatives rolled out by the Cabildo, President Dávila highlighted the deployment of over 55 field agents dedicated to managing the situation. The enhancement of technical surveys and regular meetings has been prioritized to ensure ongoing vigilance. A Wine Table has been established to facilitate weekly technical discussions among stakeholders. Furthermore, informational workshops and talks with viticulturists have been organized to disseminate educational materials aimed at raising awareness about phylloxera and its management. The formation of a Scientific Technical Advisory Committee for the Canary Islands has also been announced, with plans to seek external reports from countries where phylloxera exists alongside unaffected vineyards, such as Australia. This information will be instrumental in shaping decisions within the wine sector in collaboration with the Government of the Canary Islands.

Strengthening Border Controls and Inspection Protocols

President Dávila reaffirmed the critical importance of the 1987 Order, which outlines protective measures against harmful organisms. She mentioned ongoing requests to enhance border controls and conduct thorough inter-island inspections to prevent the spread of phylloxera. A regional agreement has been reached to urge the Government delegate to bolster the presence of the Civil Guard at ports and airports. Additionally, there have been persistent calls for increased resources from the State to enhance inspections and provide support to the agricultural sector during the harvest season, should it be impacted by the pest.

Key points

• The Tenerife Cabildo held an extraordinary session to address phylloxera measures.
• President Rosa Dávila expressed concerns about the unknown impact of the pest.
• 2,901 technical surveys have been conducted, revealing 60 positive cases.
• Preventive measures include a ban on importing seed grapes from non-pest-free countries.
• Over 55 field agents have been deployed to manage the situation.
• A Scientific Technical Advisory Committee has been established for better decision-making.
• Requests have been made to enhance border controls and inspections to prevent the spread of phylloxera.