In Alicante, the Young Farmers Agricultural Association (Asaja) has stepped forward to support farmers and ranchers affected by the Vall d’Ebo fire. The group stresses the need for an agricultural income permit that would allow those impacted to maintain their activities while recovery work unfolds. The aim is to ensure that farming does not stop for a single day, even as fields recover, and to remind decision makers that it will take years for crops to regain full productivity. An economic safety net is essential during this period to prevent sudden hardship and to keep rural livelihoods intact.
The Vall d’Ebo fire left a large swath of land scorched, affecting rain-fed olive groves, cherry trees, almond orchards, beehives, and pastures used for cattle. A notable aspect of these affected areas is the long road to profitability. Asaja Alicante highlights that many farms in the Alicante mountains operate on small to medium scales, often family-run, with local and regional markets serving as their main channels. The income generated by these farms is frequently limited, making it difficult to cover the upfront costs required for crop restoration and the ongoing expenses of maintaining herds and pollination ecosystems. A stable income floor would help these producers survive the interim while their land regrows and markets adjust to the new conditions (Asaja Alicante, 2024).
There is a broader concern that the proposed guaranteed minimum income could help curb a wave of depopulation already affecting the valley communities. The mountains near Alicante have experienced pressure from agricultural downturns, including recent tree felling in attempts to control xylella fastidiosa. Such measures, while necessary for long-term plant health, can remove productive capacity in the short term and push farmers toward abandoning rain-fed crops. The permit framework could offset these pressures, enabling farmers and ranchers to reclaim portions of their land without being forced to leave the profession (Asaja Alicante, 2024).
To expedite the rollout of this initiative, Asaja Alicante offers direct access to the Ministry of Agriculture and to the municipal councils within the affected municipalities. The association commits its technical and professional team to assist with procedures, assessments, and necessary reporting. This collaborative approach aims to streamline administrative steps and avoid delays that could jeopardize recovery timelines for farms and communities alike.
Furthermore, Asaja Alicante emphasizes the important role of agricultural cooperatives in reviving the local economy. The association notes that these cooperatives form a backbone for farmers working in the Alicante mountains and proposes a dedicated helpline to assist them in absorbing fixed costs that could otherwise hinder recovery. All of these efforts are framed within a strategic plan that addresses the challenges facing farmers, ranchers, and beekeepers who live and work in Marina Alta and El Comtat. The plan seeks to preserve and restore the local ecosystem while maintaining the cultural and economic vitality of the region (Asaja Alicante, 2024).
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