The Atlantic Islands National Park of Galicia, known as Illas Atlánticas, is taking decisive action to address the threat posed by Acacia melanoxylon, an invasive species known to exacerbate forest fires. This initiative is part of a broader state forest management program aimed at safeguarding Spain’s most environmentally valuable areas. By eradicating acacias and implementing improved forest management practices, the National Park seeks to reduce the risk of fires and preserve its unique ecosystems.

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The Threat of Acacia Proliferation

The proliferation of Acacia melanoxylon poses a significant concern for Illas Atlánticas due to its rapid spread, which can lead to environmental catastrophes on islands like Cíes, Ons, and Cortegada. Not only does the invasion of acacias threaten native flora and fauna, but it also alters the structure of forest masses, jeopardizing the biodiversity of these pristine islands.

Historical Fire Risks and Current Challenges

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Ons experienced devastating forest fires, highlighting the persistent threat of fires to the National Park’s terrestrial environment. Today, as part of the only National Park in Galicia, Ons faces ongoing fire risks, necessitating proactive measures to mitigate these dangers and protect its invaluable ecosystems.

State-led Forest Management Program

Illas Atlánticas is actively participating in a state-led forest management program, initiated by the Ministry of Ecological Transition, alongside other National Parks across Spain. This program focuses on studying various silvicultural alternatives and addressing the impacts of climate change on forest ecosystems. By exploring effective silvicultural treatments and preventive measures, the program aims to curb the expansion of acacias and mitigate the broader implications of climate change on forest dynamics.

Preserving Vulnerable Ecosystems

Ons and Cíes, among other enclaves, are identified as ecosystems particularly vulnerable to climate change and management practices. Through comprehensive studies and adaptive management measures, the program seeks to restore the natural dynamics of these ecosystems and ensure their long-term preservation.

As Illas Atlánticas embarks on this crucial endeavor to eradicate acacias and enhance forest management practices, it underscores the importance of collective action in safeguarding our natural heritage. By supporting initiatives aimed at preserving vulnerable ecosystems, we can mitigate the risks posed by invasive species and climate change, ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.

The program includes Picos de Europa, Sierra de las Nieves, Cabañeros, Ordesa and Monte Perdido, Aigüestortes, Sierra Nevada, and Sierra de Guadarrama, in addition to Illas Atlánticas.

Ons Island: Enhancing Tourism Management and Visitor Experience

As Ons Island gears up for its first tourist event of the 2024 during Easter, from March 22 to 31, it reinforces its position as the tourist crown of the Pontevedra estuary. Last year, Ons experienced a notable increase in visitor numbers, aligning with the objectives of the Regulatory Plan for the Use and Management of the Illas Atlánticas National Park of Galicia. This plan, overseen by the Ministry of Environment, aims to ensure sustainable tourism practices and prevent the saturation of these unique island enclaves.

Managing Visitor Quotas

To maintain the ecological balance and preserve the visitor experience, Ons implements a daily quota of 1,300 visitors, a policy also enforced in the popular Cíes Islands. This measure aims to prevent overcrowding and minimize environmental impact, aligning with the park’s conservation goals.

Seasonal Trends and Regulatory Measures

Interestingly, the months witnessing the highest increase in visitor numbers were not the peak summer months but rather spring and autumn. This trend reflects the flexibility of visitation outside the main tourist season, subject to strict regulatory measures to protect the island’s fragile ecosystems.

Impact of Increased Tourism

Despite the overall increase in visitor numbers, Ons faces the challenge of managing peak periods, notably August, which remains the month with the highest public influx. Managing these peaks effectively while maintaining environmental sustainability is crucial for preserving the island’s natural beauty and biodiversity.

As Ons Island prepares to welcome visitors during Easter, it emphasizes the importance of responsible tourism practices and adherence to regulatory guidelines. By balancing visitor access with conservation efforts, Ons strives to offer a memorable and sustainable tourism experience for all.

Visitors can book their visits to Ons island through the official website,
https://autorizacionillasatlanticas.xunta.gal/illasr/inicio

This article has been translated from the original here: https://www.lavozdegalicia.es/noticia/pontevedra/2024/02/04/illas-atlanticas-erradicara-acacias-reducir-riesgo-incendios/0003_202402P4C3991.htm

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