Objective:
The main objective of the Mesa del Castaño del Bierzo (Regional Chestnut Round Table) is to improve the economic performance of chestnut cultivation and the endurance of the chestnut tree as a characteristic natural, social and landscape element of the Bierzo region. The Round Table is also the coordination and representation body of the chestnut sector in the region.
Context:
The chestnut planted on nearly 19,000 ha in the Bierzo region, produces 8,000 t of chestnuts per year, some 30 million euros in added value in primary production and industry. However, in recent years chestnut has been suffering both biotic, i.e. pests and diseases, and man-made problems such as wildfires and the abandonment of the activity. The results was a significant decline, not only in El Bierzo but throughout its whole distribution area. Aware of this situation and in order to reverse it, the Round Table was created in 2009, promoted by the regional government Junta de Castilla y León, but implying all sectoral interest groups.
Contacts:
Roberto Rubio Gutiérrez, Roberto.Rubio@cesefor.com, http://www.cesefor.com
Further information:
Organization home page: www.castanea.es