A new horizon for Madrid's forests
The Community of Madrid has taken a significant step towards the conservation and improvement of its forest ecosystems with the announcement of a plan that will increase investment in forest land by 40%. This effort, which will translate into a budget of €159.7 million between 2026 and 2030, aims not only to prevent fires but also to promote the regeneration and conservation of Madrid's woodlands.
The Minister of Environment, Agriculture and Interior, Carlos Novillo, presented this initiative during an event at the Canal Foundation. The plan includes ten strategic axes and 45 concrete measures, covering everything from regulations to technological innovation in forest management. One of the key points will be the maintenance and regeneration of dehesas, vital for facing adverse weather phenomena.
A fundamental part of the plan is the implementation of advanced technology, including the use of artificial intelligence (AI). This tool will allow for the optimisation of administrative processes and improve decision-making through predictive analysis. Additionally, a Forest Information System will be developed, providing valuable resources to managers and owners in the sector.
With over 420,000 hectares dedicated to forest spaces, Madrid will implement an early warning system that combines various technologies such as weather stations, drones, and satellite images. This system aims to detect early signs of deterioration in vegetation, allowing for a rapid response to fires or pests.
Aside from the focus on prevention and conservation, the plan also considers sustainable timber harvesting. It is estimated that the volume mobilised could increase up to twenty times compared to previous legislatures, generating significant income for the sector. To facilitate this process, regional offices will be created to offer technical advice to private owners.
Through active care and specific programmes such as the creation of firebreaks and improvements in livestock infrastructure, the aim is not only to protect the woodlands but also to promote sustainable agricultural practices. These actions are essential to maintain biodiversity and ensure ecological balance in a region where ecosystems are under constant pressure from extreme climatic factors.
As Madrid faces increasingly significant environmental challenges, this new plan represents a determined commitment to strengthen its natural heritage. The combination of public investment, technological innovation, and community collaboration promises to radically transform the forest landscape of Madrid.
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