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The Region of Murcia is caught in a tough debate right now. A new conservation plan for the Moorish tortoise, an endangered species, is stirring up fears among farmers. The draft decree, open for public comment until November 1, aims to protect the tortoise and its habitat, but those who work the land worry it could mean restrictions and extra red tape.

 

Alfonso Gálvez, secretary general of ASAJA Murcia (a regional agricultural organisation representing and supporting local farmers and ranchers), put it plainly: there’s a lot of “fear” about how far the protected zones stretch - all the way from the hills near Lorca to the coast.

 

While farmers don’t mind conservation, they don’t want everyday tasks like clearing land or installing irrigation held back by new rules. They’re also asking for fair compensation if the plan affects their work.

 

Carlos Esparcia from UPA Murcia feels left out of the conversation. He says the plan’s wording is vague and that could lead to unnecessary restrictions. Plus, new paperwork could slow down farm improvements. He wants an economic report on how the plan might affect farms and future investments.

 

On the other hand, the Murcia Ministry of the Environment assures everyone that the plan isn’t about banning farming or piling on bureaucracy. It focuses on protecting special habitats like scrublands, encouraging traditional farming styles that actually fit with conservation. Busy farming areas and towns won’t be affected. They’ve also promised no forced land sales - any land agreements will be voluntary.

 

The ministry says this plan is a must, following national and EU laws. And they’ve made sure to keep the public involved, with consultations running for months.

 

Meanwhile, political party Vox is pushing back hard. They got the Ayuntamiento de Águilas to back a motion opposing parts of the plan, especially its impact on farmland.

 

This conservation plan is a balancing act between protecting a unique species and keeping Murcia’s farms thriving. The coming months will show how well the region can manage both.

 

 

 

Image: Ludvig Hedenborg/Pexels