The Secretary of Agricultural Development of Querétaro (Sedea) has initiated a preventive program against forest fires in the state to address the dry season. Its objective is to plant at least half a million trees in various parts of the region.
According to the Drought Monitor of the National Water Commission, as of February 15, 69.6% of the territory of Querétaro is experiencing drought. Of the 18 municipalities in the region, 11 are affected by moderate drought, 5 by abnormal drought, and 2 do not have drought issues.
Although Querétaro has not recorded forest fires so far this year, last year a total of 1,179 hectares were burned, representing a 289% increase compared to the year 2023. Rosendo Anaya, head of the National Forestry Commission, mentioned this data and reported that an action plan has been established.
Sedea has launched a work plan in collaboration with the State Coordination of Civil Protection, which includes tasks such as brush clearing and the creation of firebreaks in wooded areas of the 18 municipalities, especially in localities like Landa, Pinal de Amoles, Cadereyta, and Amealco.
In the event of forest fires, Sedea plans to implement a reforestation program during the rainy season in the affected areas. For this purpose, different species of native trees are already being cultivated in state nurseries.
Last year, Sedea exceeded its goal by planting more than 500,000 trees, primarily in municipalities such as Amealco, Pinal de Amoles, Landa de Matamoros, Querétaro, San Juan del Río, Huimilpan, and San Joaquín. The Secretary aims to surpass this figure this year with new reforestation initiatives.
