Professional and recreational fishmongers reach an agreement to amplify the Reserva Marina des Freus

The Insular Councill of Formentera has achieved an angreement between professional and recreational fishmongers to boost the amplifying of the Reserva Marina des Freus, which is between Ibiza and Formentera.

After months of technical work and dialogue between all the implied actors, the consensual proposal has been sent to the Directorate General of Fishing of the Government of the Balearic Islands to initiate its application.

The main goal of amplifying it is reinforcing the protection of the marine ecosystems, guaranteeing the sustainability of artisanal fishing and organizing recreational acitivties in Formentera's coast.

• South area of Formentera: two new interior waters areas are added, to the west and to the east of Far des Cap, connecting the current limits of the reserve with the straight base line of the south coast and generating ecological continuity with the already protected marine areas. This enlargement will be contemplated as an extension in exterior waters, currently in application under statal competence, to reinforce the biological connection between seafloors of the island.
• East area of the island: an area is added in front of the Caló area, aiming to protect the place and connect it with the Reserva de la Punta de sa Creu.

The proposal also contemplates a transitory disposition for the future integration of the area of Baix Fondo–es Garroveret, in application before the Agriculture, Fishing and Feeding Ministry, ensuring a coherent enlargement with the rest of protected marine spaces in Formentera.

Belén Palerm, insular councillor of the Primary Sector, pointed out that ”this enlargement does not only focus on the environmental aspect, but also in the economic and social one: it guarantees the future of our sea and of the people of our sea". The councillor highligted, in addition, the importance of reached consensus between professional and recreational fishmongers, "a fact that shows that Formentera knows how to find a balance between conservation and activity".

The enlargement of the Reserva Marina des Freus will allow increasing biodiveristy, favoring the regeneration of fish populations and establishing a stable and transparent mark for artisanal fishing. In addition, the regulation of the utilities will help control pressure on sensitive areas and improve the quality of waters and the state of seafloors.

This initiative is set in the marine conservation global challenges and reinforces Formentera's commitment with the European goal to protect the 30% of the marine environment before 2030, highlighting the tight coordination between administrations and implied sectors in the sustainable management of the coast.