La Oliva pushes to protect Bristol Saltmarsh as a Site of Scientific Interest

The municipality of La Oliva has presented to the plenary a proposal to declare the Saladar de Bristol a Scientific Interest Site (SIC). The declaration would be issued by the Government of the Canary Islands through a decree, following the report of the Island Board of Protected Natural Spaces of the Cabildo of Fuerteventura.

Background

The initiative stems from the high ecological, scientific and landscape value of this natural enclave, regarded as one of the most singular coastal ecosystems on Fuerteventura. For decades the area has endured strong urban and environmental pressure.

Key Findings

Technical reports attached to the dossier highlight:

69 plant species and 89 bird species, many of them protected or threatened.
Habitats of community interest recognized by the European Union.
A strategic zone for migratory birds and endemic Canary species.

Official Statements

“The protection of the Saladar de Bristol is a responsibility toward our natural heritage and future generations. We are talking about a unique space in the Canary Islands that has suffered constant deterioration for many years and now must be preserved with all guarantees,” said Mayor Isaí Blanco.

“La Oliva cannot turn its back on one of the most valuable environmental enclaves of Fuerteventura. This proposal shows that it is possible to advance territorial conservation through consensus, technical rigor, and institutional commitment,” Blanco added.

“Scientific reports make clear that the Saladar de Bristol holds exceptional natural values that fully justify its declaration as a Scientific Interest Site,” noted Environment Councilor David Fajardo.

“The dossier does not only propose protecting the area on paper; it also outlines concrete measures for environmental restoration, invasive‑species control, access regulation, impact reduction, and continuous scientific monitoring,” Fajardo explained.

Threats and Proposed Measures

Main threats identified

Urban expansion
Discharges and waste accumulation
Uncontrolled vehicle and pedestrian traffic
Presence of invasive species
Acoustic and light pollution

Proposed actions

Restoration of degraded habitats
Control and eradication of invasive species
Regulation of public access and visitor flows
Reduction of anthropogenic impacts (noise, light, waste)
Ongoing scientific monitoring and data collection

Legal Framework

The proposal seeks to protect 29.49 hectares encompassing the Saladar de Bristol, the Charco de Bristol, and Punta de Corralejo. It establishes a legal framework to guarantee the conservation of this natural space, grounded in Law 4/2017 on Land and Protected Natural Spaces of the Canary Islands, which regulates the declaration of Scientific Interest Sites for areas with singular environmental values and protected species.

Conclusion

With this initiative, the municipality of La Oliva reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding the natural environment, biodiversity, and the environmental heritage of the municipality. The proposed SIC designation aims to ensure long‑term protection and sustainable management of one of Fuerteventura’s most precious coastal ecosystems.