Spain (Tenerife): 272,000 euros allocated to minimize the damage caused by the Guatemalan potato moth

Agricultural biodiversity presents major challenges worldwide, says Carlos Marfil in the preface to Andean Potatoes and Quinoa: Origin, Current Status and Recipes of Ancestral Crops, a work that has just been released by the imprint

The Minister of Primary Sector, Valentín González, has announced the opening of the application period for subsidies intended for owners of agricultural holdings located more than 300 meters above sea level and with a minimum sown area of ​​2,000 square meters.

This year’s call for proposals is structured around four specific lines of support: crop rotation, which promotes alternating between potatoes, cereals, and legumes to disrupt the biological cycle of pests; phytosanitary treatments and crop monitoring; biological control through the controlled release of natural enemies of the potato tuber moth by specialized companies; and waste management, promoting the removal and disposal of affected potatoes through the channels provided by the Island Council.

Valentín González emphasized that this initiative not only aims to mitigate the economic impact of the potato moth infestation on farmers, but also to promote a model based on agroecological practices that preserve soil health in the long term. He further highlighted that this aid provides technical and biological tools that reinforce the quality of Tenerife potatoes as a leading product.

The application period will be open until June 15. Those interested can submit their applications through the Cabildo’s online portal or in person at the Registry Assistance Offices and the Agricultural Extension Agencies on the island, by appointment.

For those who wish to obtain more information, the citizen service number 901 501 901 has been enabled, in addition to having the network of Agricultural Extension Agencies distributed throughout the island.