Teide National Park Management Transferred to Tenerife Council by Canary Islands Government

On December 23, the Canary Islands Government officially confirmed the transfer of management responsibilities for Teide National Park to the Tenerife Council. This significant decision marks a pivotal moment in the governance of one of Spain’s most iconic natural landmarks, known for its stunning volcanic landscapes and rich biodiversity.

Details of the Management Transition

Rosa Dávila, the President of the Cabildo de Tenerife, made the announcement during a press conference that followed a session of the Council of Government. She elaborated that the responsibilities, which were previously delegated to the council, are now being fully transferred to the island corporation. This change is expected to streamline operations and enhance the effectiveness of park management.

As part of this transition, the number of environmental officers will see a notable increase from 12 to 17. This adjustment is part of the implementation of the corporate Job Position Relationship (RPT), which aims to bolster the workforce dedicated to the park’s management. Dávila emphasized that the Tenerife Council will ensure that all necessary human and material resources are provided to facilitate the effective execution of these responsibilities, thereby enhancing the park’s operational capabilities.

Implications for Environmental Oversight

Despite the management transfer, Dávila assured stakeholders that there will be no changes in the management of environmental evaluations. These evaluations will continue to be overseen by the same administrative bodies that have historically managed them. This continuity is crucial for maintaining the park’s environmental integrity and ensuring compliance with existing regulations.

The transfer of management responsibilities is seen as an opportunity for improvement, marking the conclusion of a lengthy process that included the approval of the Use and Management Master Plan after an extensive 22-year period. This plan provides a more modern regulatory framework for the park, which is essential for adapting to contemporary environmental challenges and visitor needs.

In addition to the management transfer, a new contract has been approved to enhance environmental conservation and security measures within the park. This contract will increase the number of rural guards from 12 to 16, thereby improving safety and oversight in the area. A total budget of €3.7 million has been allocated for this initiative over three years, with an option for a two-year extension, reflecting the government’s commitment to preserving the park’s natural resources.

Recent Developments and Safety Initiatives

In her address, Dávila also highlighted the recent success of the ‘Snow Operations’ conducted over the past weekend. Various departments of the Cabildo collaborated to facilitate organized visits to the park, which is particularly popular during the winter months when snow covers the landscape. A total of 30 free buses provided by Titsa transported over 5,500 visitors to experience the breathtaking scenery and recreational opportunities that Teide National Park offers.

In light of safety concerns, particularly due to hazardous ice conditions, the President mentioned that they have proactively requested the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) to keep the road between El Portillo Alto and the cable car closed. This precautionary measure underscores the commitment to visitor safety, ensuring that those who wish to explore the park can do so without undue risk.

Key points

• The Canary Islands Government has confirmed the transfer of Teide National Park management to the Tenerife Council.
• The number of environmental officers will increase from 12 to 17.
• All necessary resources for the management transfer will be provided.
• Environmental evaluations will remain under the same administrative oversight.
• A new contract for environmental security will increase rural guards from 12 to 16.
• A budget of €3.7 million has been allocated for the new contract over three years.
• Recent ‘Snow Operations’ successfully transported over 5,500 visitors to the park.
• Safety measures include the closure of the road between El Portillo Alto and the cable car due to ice conditions.