The Canarian pine is protected because this unique and resilient tree species is found only on the Canary Islands.
The Canary Island pine (Pinus canariensis) grows tall, has characteristic long needles, and remarkable adaptability to volcanic soils and extreme weather conditions. Moreover, this endemic tree plays a crucial role in the ecosystem of the islands. The Canary Island pine is not only a symbol of the islands’ natural beauty but also a key ally in water management, soil protection, and wildfire prevention. Its ability to recover after fires and its role in capturing mist contribute significantly to the biodiversity and sustainability of the region.
Employment Initiatives
To safeguard and protect the Pinus canariensis, the government is investing €5 million in the Canary Island palm tree. This funding not only benefits nature but also enhances employment opportunities. The investment will be allocated to social employment centers and social integration companies over a 10-year period, enabling them to undertake the protection of pine forests.
Maintenance and related work will primarily take place in the Parque Rural de Teno, Parque Rural de Anaga, and the Scientifically Important Site of Interián. The objective is to maintain the Canary Island palm tree and its habitat, including clearing slopes and riverbeds near populated areas to prevent wildfires.
The island government—Cabildo de Tenerife—will hire unemployed individuals to carry out maintenance tasks in palm forests and reduce combustible material in areas near residential zones. The recruitment is reserved for social employment centers and social integration companies. Blanca Pérez, the competent minister, stated that the tender for this service was recently approved for €5 million, with a maximum duration of 10 years.
103,000 Specimens
The Canary Island palm tree (Phoenix canariensis) is a native and protected species typically found at mid-altitudes of the islands, usually between 200 and 500 meters above sea level. The tree is highly adapted to its environment and can reach a height of 30 meters. On Tenerife, there are approximately 103,000 specimens, thriving in both urban environments and natural locations. Particularly in rural areas where the trees grow naturally, they form an impressive part of the landscape, either as solitary specimens or in palm groves.
Wildfire Prevention
To prevent wildfires, a meticulous schedule has been established. This involves two types of activities: shredding palm leaves and other pruning debris, and clearing underbrush on slopes and in riverbeds.
In areas close to homes or villages, all combustible material will be completely removed. In other zones near residential areas or inhabited houses, selective clearing may take place, ensuring that protected or valuable species are preserved. Remaining plant debris will be evenly spread across the ground.
Special attention is also given to invasive plant species, such as fountain grass (Pennisetum setaceum), with a protocol designed to address these plants effectively.
Procurement
The dynamic procurement system aims to rationalize and streamline the acquisition of the required services, as stipulated in Article 218 of Law 9/2017 of 8 November on Public Contracts. This law implements European Directives 2014/23/EU and 2014/24/EU.
The system ensures compliance with fundamental principles of public procurement, such as free access to tenders, publicity, transparency, non-discrimination, equal treatment of bidders, and efficient use of resources through more effective competition among bidders.
Inaturalist.org © Photography
Canarian Pine is Protected ©
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