The scene is striking: heavy machinery bursts into a pine forest in Madrid, while the tree trunks lie marked for extraction. However, the Community of Madrid defends this action, taking place in Gascones, as a forest management measure aimed at reducing tree density and mitigating the risk of forest fires. The removal of 32,900 cubic meters of wood is projected in an area of 280 hectares.
This effort is part of the Madrid Forest Plan, which covers four public forests, including actions in Puebla de la Sierra and Montejo de la Sierra. The region expects to harvest 79,780 cubic meters of wood, generating approximate revenues of 1,461,898 euros, representing a significant economic contribution.
The excess of vegetation in the forests poses a risk not only due to the number of trees but also due to the accumulation of dry branches and competition for resources such as water. During the hot months, this abundance of biomass becomes a dangerous combination.
The Ministry for Ecological Transition reminds that silviculture tasks are crucial to reduce and control forest fuels, making forests less prone to catching fire. These tasks include clearing, pruning, and thinning, practices that differ from simple tree felling.
In the Lozoya Valley, the work will extend over two years on publicly owned land, with PEFC certification ensuring sustainable forest management. Councilor Carlos Novillo highlights the importance of these activities to reduce fuels and create firebreaks, essential to curb potential fires.
Fire Prevention
Often, tree felling raises concerns, especially on public lands. However, this procedure is carefully planned and supervised by the Forest Agents Corps to ensure its correct execution.
The extracted wood will be used for various industries, from construction to biomass production, in a context that promotes the circular economy. In Gascones, revenues are expected to reach 962,498 euros, with 15% allocated to forest improvements.
The European Environment Agency warns about the impact of climate change and rural abandonment, which increase the risk of fires in Europe. The accumulation of fuel in forests is particularly concerning in the Mediterranean.
For the residents of the mountains, prevention must anticipate the summer, with interventions in winter and spring, before the heat accelerates the danger. Proper felling can benefit the forest, while poor practice could damage it irreversibly.
The success of this plan depends on protecting the soils, forest roads, and biodiversity. The Community of Madrid includes these actions under the Madrid Forestal 2026-2030 plan, with an investment of 160 million euros, seeking to strengthen ecosystems and the rural environment.
Efficient management of forest space is crucial, given that 52.76% of Madrid’s territory is forest. Since 2016, forest coverage has grown significantly, highlighting the need for proper management to avoid risks.
The Community has advanced 22.3% in its goal to market 357,333 cubic meters of wood by 2026, forecasting revenues of 4.1 million euros. Now, it remains to be seen if the actions will fulfill their promises, benefiting both the natural environment and the regional economy.
The official information has been released by the Community of Madrid.
