Por Redaccion 
Andalucía has established itself as a reference in sustainable forest management and once again demonstrated this at the State Public Forest Network (REMP) meeting held on February 5 and 6 at the Natural Visitor and Forest Center in Los Alcornocales, in Alkalá de los Gazules, Cádiz. In this context, «Technical continuous cover systems in the Canary Quercus masses» played a key role in promoting innovation in forest management and the valorization of forest resources.
This meeting brought together technical experts in forestry and representatives from the timber and wine industry. With a focus on the potential of the Quejigo (Quercus canariensis Willd.) as a key species in the regeneration of the Alcornobal mountain and the diversification of forest uses, the event was part of the Andalusian government’s strategy to ensure the sustainability of these ecosystems, enhance their resilience to climate change, and create new economic opportunities for forest owners.
The Natural Park of Los Alcornocales is one of the most valuable natural heritage sites in Andalusia. Traditionally, its management has been linked to the use of cork, a resource with high ecological, economic, and cultural value. However, challenges in the natural regeneration of the Cork Oak, due to various factors, suggest the need to rethink the current management model of these forest systems.
To address this situation, the Andalusian government has introduced a new approach to forest management, with a special emphasis on the importance of the jungle. This model allows for progressive and selective interventions in forest stands, favoring the regeneration of species like Quejigo and Cork Oak that contribute to ecosystem balance.
Gabriel Gutiérz Tejada, the Counselor of the General Directorate of Forest Policy and Biodiversity of the Andalusian Government, stated, «The objective is to ensure the regeneration of these mountains while also providing sustainable economic alternatives for owners. Cork, along with Montanera and Pastures, has been the primary resource so far, but we aim to expand the range of uses, with Quejigo wood playing a key role in this process.»
Quejigo and its value in the wine sector
One of the most innovative aspects discussed was the potential use of Quejigo wood in the wine industry. The use of oak barrels has been a common practice in wineries worldwide, but the wood predominantly comes from foreign species like French or American oak.
Research conducted in Andalusia aims to characterize the physical, mechanical, and organoleptic properties of Quejigo wood to assess its suitability for barrel and cask production. If the results confirm its potential, this resource could serve as a local alternative for winemakers, reducing dependence on imports and promoting more sustainable production.
A significant contribution to this discussion came from César Saldaña, President of the Regulatory Council for the designations of origin «Jerez-Xérès-Sherry,» «Manzanilla-Sanlúcar de Barrameda,» and «JESIT VINEGAR,» who shared the sector’s perspective on this project. His insights were complemented by experts from the timber industry and university researchers analyzing wood properties from various angles, including structural strength and compatibility with wine and liquor aging.
A silviculture model with a highly favorable impact on biodiversity and soil
The jungle-focused approach implemented in Andalusia aims to utilize forest resources while conserving biodiversity and enhancing soil quality.
«The continuous cover approach allows us to intervene in the forest without disrupting the ecosystem’s structure. Low-intensity actions promote the natural regeneration of Quejigo and Cork Oak, ensuring vegetation remains undisturbed. This prevents soil erosion and enables seeds to germinate under optimal conditions,» explained Gutiérz Tejada.
As an improvement over traditional models, this new methodology prioritizes natural regeneration and ecological balance. Initial tree selection is based on quality and their role in the forest dynamics, ensuring adequate space for the development of new tree generations.
The work being carried out in the Alcornocales Natural Park exemplifies the Andalusian government’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in forest management. This strategy aims to balance environmental preservation with generating economic opportunities for forest owners and residents of the Cork Oak regions in Andalusia, especially at a time when Mediterranean ecosystems face increasing challenges due to global changes.
The Counselor of the General Directorate of Forest Policy and Biodiversity emphasized, «We are not just managing a resource; we are protecting a natural treasure of immeasurable value. The regeneration of the Alcornobal mountain and the diversification of its uses are crucial for its future. We want Quejigo and Cork to remain in our forests, and we are working to ensure they do.»
Participants and authorities at the event included Oscar Curtido, the territorial delegate for sustainability and the environment in the province of Cádiz; Juan Manuel Fornell, the conservation director of the Los Alcornocales Natural Park; María José Arias, the head of promotion and management of natural resources at the Environmental Agency in Andalusia; Esther Pérez Martín, the coordinator of the representative; and the technical team responsible for managing the Alcornocales forest among others.