WWF Spain presented its annual report on forest fires “Pastoralism against fires” on July 5, in Madrid. The presentation of the report, which includes the “Ramats de Foc” project as a benchmark for the use of extensive livestock farming as a forest management tool, was attended by David Martín, project manager from the Pau Costa Foundation (PCF).
“In Ramats de Foc we connect farmers, firefighters, butchers and restaurants with the wider society so that they can build a network”. – David Martin
In the report, WWF Spain proposes adapting the territory to climate change and forest fires through the use of extensive livestock farming in strategic areas of the territory. Moreover, WWF Spain reveals that the role of extensive livestock farming is crucial when it comes to recovering a rich landscape that alternates areas of forest with cultivated and grazed areas. A mosaic that, in addition to natural richness, provides greater resistance to the spread of flames.
According to Lourdes Hernández, WWF Spain forest programme technician, “Extensive livestock farming plays an important role in recovering a landscape that alternates forest areas with cultivated and grazed areas”. She also added that “Thanks to this mosaic, there will be more biodiversity and the territory will be more resistant to the spread of flames and more adapted to climate change. It is also a great opportunity to tackle another major challenge: rural depopulation.”
This was a first collaboration of the Foundation with WWF Spain, which will be accompanied by future joint actions to promote sustainable forest management and a diverse and economically and culturally dynamic natural environment.
