The Tenerife Cabildo has initiated discussions to increase the protection of the Teno-Rasca marine area, currently a Special Conservation Zone (ZEC), to safeguard the local fishing industry. This initiative was confirmed by Rosa Dávila, President of the Cabildo, in a statement yesterday (Wednesday).
“We have achieved broad consensus and aim to reactivate this initiative,” said Dávila. She explained that the process involves collaboration with two ministries of the central Spanish Government.
Dávila announced a meeting with the General Secretariat of Fisheries and an informal discussion with the Secretary of State for the Environment, Hugo Morán. “Both were in agreement, and we have agreed to review the existing files, which already grant special protection to the area,” she said.
The Cabildo has proposed that, if economic or management issues arise, it will provide financial resources in a partnership with the Ministry of Fisheries.
Dávila also addressed the issue of unlicensed recreational activities in the protected areas, particularly whale-watching tours. “All boats in these special protection zones for whale watching in Teno-Rasca are supposed to operate under sustainable agreements,” she explained.
The Cabildo has implemented strict inspections, including anonymous visits, to ensure compliance with sustainability agreements and address any reported irregularities. The Cabildo's auditing service verifies adherence to regulations, such as noise levels on boats.
The motivation behind increasing the protection of the Teno-Rasca ZEC is to not only to safeguard species, but also preserve fishing activities in the area. Dávila emphasised the need for broader protection to ensure sustainable fishing practices. This proposal is under consideration by the Ministry of Fisheries.
“This expansion will address the management of the zone, fishing methods, and permitted activities, similar to the protections established in La Graciosa and El Hierro,” Dávila stated. The goal is to create reserves that support ecosystem preservation and regeneration, benefiting local fishermen.
Dávila concluded by emphasising the importance of these measures for maintaining the integrity of the Teno-Rasca marine zone, ensuring both environmental conservation and the sustainability of local fishing industries.
