FUNDEM acquires a new plot of land for its protection in Alcubierre (Huesca)

We have some fantastic news to share. FUNDEM has acquired its 20th plot of land. It consists of two small parcels in the municipality of Alcubierre, in the province of Huesca, covering an area of ​​3.18 hectares. This land has significant biological value, as it features centuries-old junipers and holm oaks, and borders a Special Protection Area for Birds (SPA) and a Special Conservation Area (SCA).

The properties were previously owned by the Árboles Para Siempre (Trees Forever) Association, which is currently being dissolved. We have taken over their care and conservation. The purchase price was €7,000 plus notary fees.

Biologist and environmental scientist Íñigo Gárate will be responsible for its custody with an interesting project whose objective is to conserve the existing habitat, maintain the ecological and traditional integrity of the land and guarantee the protection of the representative plant species of the environment, especially the centuries-old junipers and the associated Mediterranean vegetation, ensuring the stability of the soil, the ecological functionality and the reduction of risks that may cause degradation, such as fires or erosive processes.

PLANNED ACTIONS

Biodiversity Inventory and Unique Elements
An inventory of the plant and animal species present will be carried out, as well as the identification and location of unique specimens such as centuries-old junipers or others that may have special characteristics.

Signage
Unique elements such as junipers will be marked in a simple manner, and a small path will be defined, if appropriate, to allow for safe passage through the property.

Preventive Fire Risk Management
Continuous scrub and dry grass will be reduced in a controlled manner within a 5-10 m perimeter around the property and in specific points within the property where necessary, to prevent the accumulation of fuel for fire.

Runoff Management and Erosion Control
Natural water drainage channels will be kept clear to prevent uncontrolled flow concentration, correcting rills or erosion points to promote infiltration and reduce soil depletion. On slopes where concentrated runoff is detected, shallow, narrow trenches may be constructed following the contour lines. These trenches are designed to slow the water flow and facilitate its gradual infiltration into the ground, thus preventing the formation of rills and slope degradation. The condition of terrace walls, which provide soil stability and slope stabilization, aid in water infiltration, and prevent erosion, will also be reviewed.

Other issues
All elements that could have an impact will be reviewed, such as the potential uncontrolled spread of processionary caterpillars or other situations typical of the specific ecosystem. In appropriate areas, the possibility of targeted restoration with native species will be assessed, thereby reinforcing the vegetation structure and improving overall resilience.