The sale of 230 hectares of traditional orchards in Los Carrizales de Elche to a Murcia-based company has alarmed environmental groups. Amigos de los Humedales del Sur de Alicante (AHSA) warns that industrial farming practices may increase in this protected area, which is safeguarded under regional and European regulations.
This development could accelerate the degradation of the nature reserve. AHSA has filed multiple complaints against activities they say harm the environment.
Impact on a protected ecosystem
The sold land includes some of the best-preserved areas of Los Carrizales. Changes are expected, such as increased agrochemical use and the replacement of traditional flood irrigation with drip systems. These shifts could disrupt water management in Los Carrizales and threaten the wetlands of the nearby Parque Natural de las Salinas de Santa Pola, which rely on water from this region.
Previous complaints highlight concerns
In 2021 and 2022, AHSA protested two agricultural transformations in Los Carrizales. These included the construction of irrigation ponds and changes to the traditional irrigation system, affecting 80 and 45 hectares respectively.
One complaint led to a sanction and an order for land restoration. However, the company involved appealed the decision, allowing work to continue. Meanwhile, actions challenged in 2022 were approved by the Generalitat Valenciana. AHSA argues this reflects poor management of the protected area.
Loss of biodiversity and traditional farming
Industrial agricultural practices now affect over a quarter of Los Carrizales, including both the newly sold and previously altered areas. This threatens a delicate agricultural ecosystem that has balanced farming with biodiversity for centuries.
AHSA criticises the lack of institutional support for traditional agriculture. They highlight the failure of the Los Carrizales Natural Agricultural Park project, which aimed to revive traditional market gardening. The project stalled due to what AHSA describes as regional government indifference.
A call for action
The sale underscores the ongoing tension between industrial agriculture and environmental conservation in protected areas. As Los Carrizales faces further transformation, activists urge authorities to prioritise sustainable practices and protect the region’s ecological and agricultural heritage.