Phylloxera Management in Tenerife Shows Positive Signs After Comprehensive Assessments

The situation regarding phylloxera on the island of Tenerife has been evaluated as stable, according to Valentín González, the Councillor for the Primary Sector at the Cabildo de Tenerife. This assessment follows a detailed technical meeting that reviewed the findings from an extensive series of 4,000 surveys conducted throughout the region. The results indicate a controlled environment concerning the pest, which has been a significant concern for local agriculture.

Currently, the number of confirmed phylloxera cases stands at 65, all of which are confined to the designated zero zone of Tacoronte-Acentejo–La Orotava. This containment is viewed as a significant achievement in managing the pest’s impact on the island’s agricultural landscape. The proactive measures taken by local authorities have played a crucial role in preventing the spread of phylloxera beyond this specific area, allowing other regions to continue their agricultural activities with minimal disruption.

Grape Harvesting Efforts Across the Island

As the grape harvesting season progresses, various Designated Quality Areas of Tenerife are witnessing a successful collection of grapes, with over half of the expected yield already gathered. However, the Tacoronte-Acentejo area has not yet reached this milestone, although it is anticipated that the harvest will meet its targets in the coming days. The ongoing efforts reflect the resilience and dedication of local agricultural professionals in navigating the challenges posed by the pest.

Currently, around 50 agricultural professionals are actively engaged in the harvesting process across the island. These workers are adhering to the guidelines established by the Canary Islands Government, which are designed to control and contain the spread of phylloxera. The commitment to these protocols is essential in ensuring that the pest remains limited to its current zone, thereby safeguarding the broader agricultural community and the quality of the island’s wine production.

Strategic Emergency Plan for the Wine Sector

In response to the ongoing challenges presented by phylloxera, the Cabildo de Tenerife is in the process of developing an emergency plan aimed specifically at bolstering the wine sector. This initiative is set to be presented at the upcoming plenary session and is designed to enhance the sector’s resilience through a multifaceted approach that includes financial support, technical assistance, and improved communication strategies.

The proposed plan highlights the critical role of the wine industry in the local economy, emphasizing the need for sustainable practices amid the current pest situation. By focusing on the long-term viability of the sector, the Cabildo aims to ensure that local vineyards can continue to thrive despite the challenges posed by phylloxera. This proactive approach is expected to foster a sense of security among wine producers and contribute to the overall stability of the agricultural landscape on the island.

Key points

• The phylloxera situation in Tenerife is currently described as contained.
• A total of 4,000 surveys have been conducted, confirming 65 cases of the pest.
• All confirmed cases are located in the zero zone of Tacoronte-Acentejo–La Orotava.
• Over half of the grapes have been harvested in other Designated Quality Areas.
• Approximately 50 professionals are working in the fields to manage the harvest.
• An emergency plan for the wine sector will be presented at the next plenary session.

The ongoing efforts to manage phylloxera and support the local wine industry reflect a broader commitment to maintaining agricultural integrity on Tenerife. The collaboration between local authorities and agricultural professionals is vital in ensuring that the island’s rich viticultural heritage is preserved for future generations. As the situation continues to evolve, stakeholders remain vigilant and prepared to adapt to any changes that may arise, ensuring that the island’s agricultural sector remains robust and sustainable.

With the grape harvest progressing and the emergency plan on the horizon, the outlook for Tenerife’s wine industry appears cautiously optimistic. The dedication of local farmers and the strategic interventions by the Cabildo are crucial components in navigating the complexities of agricultural management in the face of pest challenges. As the community rallies together, there is hope that the lessons learned from this experience will strengthen the resilience of the agricultural sector in the long run.