Liberación Canaria has voiced its concern over the condition of the palm grove in Haría, a notable natural symbol of Lanzarote and key to its identity as the Valley of a Thousand Palms.
Local residents have reported fears about the increasing number of dry or sick palm trees, alongside the disappearance of some specimens. They believe this decline warrants a clear and documented response from local authorities.
According to the party, the palms of Haría are not merely decorative; they are integral to the history, landscape, and cultural heritage of the area. Preserving them requires careful planning and sustained commitment.
Liberación Canaria has called on the Haría Town Hall to provide public updates on the palm grove’s health and details of a health study announced earlier this year, including treatments applied and affected areas.
They stress that ongoing plans to combat the invasive pest Diocalandra frumenti reflect that this issue cannot be treated lightly. As such, they demand transparent information and an updated assessment to protect this vital natural and cultural asset.
The party is urging the town and Lanzarote’s government to clarify the role of Haría’s palm grove in island-wide conservation efforts, the resources allocated for its upkeep, and specific plans to restore lost trees and manage the health of remaining specimens.
Liberación Canaria proposes implementing a Recovery and Conservation Plan for Haría’s palm grove, covering several key areas:
– Gradual replanting of Canary palms where they’ve been lost.
– Regular health assessments of the palm grove.
– Publishing updated data on affected trees.
– Coordinated efforts among local councils, government bodies, private owners, and specialists.
– Preventative measures against pests.
– A conservation strategy to maintain Haría’s historical image.
They stress the importance of responsibility, transparency, and planning in addressing this issue, saying that if current actions are inadequate, they must be scaled up.
“Caring for the palm grove is about preserving the history, identity, and natural heritage of a municipality that cannot afford to lose one of its most recognisable symbols,” they conclude.
