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The huge task of restoring the land devastated by the Niebla wildfire, in Huelva, could take around 20 years and cost more than €400 million, forestry experts have warned.

 

Their first concern is the ground itself. With vegetation stripped away across more than 39,000 hectares, the soil is exposed ahead of the rainy season. The Andalusian Forestry Association, AFA, says “there is no time to lose” to prevent erosion and runoff causing further harm, including to infrastructure downstream such as the Corumbel Bajo reservoir.

 

Emergency measures to stabilise the land are estimated at about €90 million. A further €29 million would be needed to manage the burnt vegetation left behind, clearing the way for the forest to recover.

 

The fire was brought under control on August 21, after 14 days of firefighting. It affected 11 municipalities in Huelva and Seville and forced 417 people to leave their homes. At the height of the operation, more than 1,100 personnel were involved, supported by 33 aircraft, 21 fire engines and 18 bulldozers.

 

Replanting will be another major part of the recovery. Experts believe sowing and planting could be needed on at least 40% of the area, although they will first assess how much of each zone can regenerate naturally. That work has been put at around €96 million.

 

The job will not end once new trees are in the ground. AFA says the new forest stands will need care and maintenance for at least two decades, at an estimated cost of €110 million, if they are to grow into healthier woodland capable of withstanding future fires and the effects of climate change.

 

The scale of the setback is made worse by the area’s history. Around 40% of the land hit by the August blaze had already been affected by the large Riotinto Mines fire in 2004, meaning much of the previous restoration work has now been lost.

 

Earlier in the emergency, more than 600 personnel were battling the fire as unpredictable winds made conditions difficult for crews.

 

The Council of Ministers has declared the affected territory an area seriously affected by a civil protection emergency, formerly known as a disaster zone. The measure also includes land affected by the Islantilla fire on July 27.

 

Those able to prove they suffered losses may be eligible for aid, including support for damaged homes, businesses and municipal infrastructure, along with possible tax and social security relief.

 

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