Recovery of Monte de Viñuelas: an effort for biodiversity
The Community of Madrid has taken a significant step towards the restoration of Monte de Viñuelas, a natural area that suffered severe damage due to a forest fire on August 11. The regional president, Isabel Díaz Ayuso, recently oversaw the completion of urgent works that required a total investment of 403,198 euros. This effort aims not only to recover the landscape but also to protect a vital enclave for biodiversity, part of the Natura 2000 Network.
The fire ravaged approximately 263.14 hectares, which is equivalent to 85% of the mountain. In light of this devastation, the regional government prioritised actions to stabilise the most affected areas and prevent irreversible soil degradation. Using satellite images to assess the damage, techniques such as brushwood barriers and earth mounds made from wood sourced from the burnt trees were implemented.
The primary objective of these measures is to retain nutrients in the soil before rains cause runoff that could wash away fertile soil into nearby waterways.
However, recovery goes beyond the physical stabilisation of the land. Through the Madfire project, the Madrid Institute for Rural, Agricultural and Food Research and Development (Imidra) has allocated 173,560 euros to investigate pathogens in burnt soils. This study is crucial to prevent diseases that could hinder plant regeneration.
Additionally, specific shelters have been created, such as ponds for amphibians and mounds for rabbits, as well as perches for birds, all aimed at facilitating the return of various species to the affected ecosystem.
Considering the communities affected by the fire, the Community has launched an economic package that includes direct aid to private owners. Up to 1.1 million euros will be allocated, allowing each owner to access grants that can reach 40,000 euros.
Locally, around 3,400 plants have been distributed, replacing highly flammable species like cypress with strawberry trees in community plots. Furthermore, 21 Colmenareña breed sheep have been donated to a farming operation affected by the disaster.
No less important is the intervention of Canal de Isabel II, which has implemented significant discounts on water bills —of up to 80%— for 44 affected users.
As these urgent works at Monte de Viñuelas conclude, it is clear that this process not only represents an immediate response to an environmental crisis but also a continuous commitment to ecological conservation and restoration in Madrid.
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