Vineyards act as firebreaks to protect Catalan landscapes

Ester Nin, a biologist and wine grower, manages vineyards in El Pla de Manlleu that functioned as effective firebreaks during recent wildfires in Catalonia.

Nin and her brother Jaume lead the local Agrupació de Defensa Forestal to maintain the land and prevent forest expansion. Their work involves clearing brush, cutting branches, and removing wood to create a mosaic landscape of crops and forest. The Nin family operates a small winery where they cultivate varieties like montònega, roussanne, and marsanne.

These vineyards, particularly in the Selma area, helped stop the spread of flames during the summer. Nin notes that while these efforts require significant time and money, they are essential for territorial resilience. She advocates for subsidies to support farmers who perform this extra labor to protect the region from fire. Many producers in the area have joined the Vinyes de Foc initiative, a brand approved by the European Union in 2025.

This certification recognizes viticultors who maintain their land to mitigate fire risks. While the brand provides visibility, Nin emphasizes that the primary way to sustain the territory is through the consumption of local products like wine, milk, and cheese. This economic support helps prevent rural depopulation and keeps the forests managed.