WILDFIRES
The forest fires of August 2022 in Castellón province, presented a significant environmental and humanitarian challenge. The fire ravaged 19,159 hectares of land, including 17,352 hectares of forest, affecting various municipalities and forcing the evacuation of 1,500 residents. The severity of the fire led to the confinement of multiple municipalities of the Alto Palancia area, underscoring the immediate threat to human safety and community stability. Ecologically, the devastation was profound, with an estimated 4,000 hectares deemed “very difficult” to recover due to being populated by species with low recovery capacity or previously affected by the 2012 fire. The challenge, therefore, lies in the recovery efforts of the Mediterranean forest ecosystem, particularly in the province of Castellón and the development of resilient infrastructure to mitigate future fire risks. Additionally, it is crucial to engage the affected population, including young people, and other relevant actors in awareness campaigns and recovery initiatives, fostering their commitment and leadership in rebuilding and enhancing the resilience of their communities against devastating wildfires.
Wildfire ecology examines the role of fire in ecosystems, focusing on how fires start, spread, and affect the environment. Fire is a natural disturbance that, in many ecosystems, plays an essential role in renewing and sustaining biodiversity. Certain ecosystems, like grasslands, Mediterranean forests, and some coniferous forests, have evolved with periodic fires, which help recycle nutrients, clear dead vegetation, and create new growth opportunities. Many plant species have adaptations for fire survival or regeneration, such as thick bark, fire-resistant seeds, or the ability to resprout after burning.
However, human activities, such as fire suppression, land development, and climate change, have altered natural fire regimes. Fire suppression, for instance, can lead to the buildup of dry vegetation, increasing the intensity of future fires. In contrast, climate change contributes to longer, hotter, and drier fire seasons, making landscapes more prone to extreme fires. In wildfire-prone areas, understanding fire ecology is crucial for developing sustainable management practices that balance fire’s natural role with protecting communities and ecosystems.
To learn more about wildfires visit the Wildfire Research Center.
Forest Management Practices:
- Abandonment of Agricultural and Forestry Activities: The decline in traditional land uses, such as agriculture and livestock grazing, has led to increased forest density and accumulation of combustible materials. This lack of active land management creates conditions conducive to wildfires.
Climatic Factors:
- Drought and High Temperatures: Extended periods of drought and elevated temperatures have dried vegetation, making forests more susceptible to ignition and rapid fire spread.
Human Activities:
- Negligence and Accidental Ignitions: Human actions, whether intentional or accidental, have been significant contributors to fire outbreaks. Activities such as improper disposal of flammable materials or uncontrolled agricultural burns have sparked fires.
Environmental Impact:
- Loss of Biodiversity: The fires destroyed habitats, leading to a decline in local flora and fauna populations.
- Soil Degradation: The intense heat compromised soil structure and fertility, increasing erosion risks and hindering natural regeneration.
Economic Impact:
- Agricultural and Forestry Losses: Destruction of crops, orchards, and timber resources resulted in significant financial setbacks for local farmers and landowners.
- Tourism Decline: Damage to natural landscapes led to a decrease in tourism, affecting businesses reliant on visitors.
Social Impact:
- Community Displacement: Evacuations and property losses disrupted the lives of residents, leading to emotional distress and a sense of insecurity.
- Health Issues: Smoke and air pollution from the fires caused respiratory problems among the population, particularly affecting vulnerable groups.
The fires profoundly affected the Alto Palancia community, disrupting daily life and livelihoods. In response, local actors and organizations have initiated various recovery and resilience-building efforts:
Formation of Ōriwa Platform:
- Residents from Bejís, Teresa, Torás, Sacañet, and El Toro established the Ōriwa platform to focus on reforestation and socio-environmental recovery. Their initiatives include cleaning accumulated waste in forests, protecting the Palancia River, and promoting reforestation with native species.
- Residents from Bejís, Teresa, Torás, Sacañet, and El Toro established the Ōriwa platform to focus on reforestation and socio-environmental recovery. Their initiatives include cleaning accumulated waste in forests, protecting the Palancia River, and promoting reforestation with native species.
Governmental Support:
- The Generalitat Valenciana allocated approximately 2 million euros in the 2024 budget for the restoration of burned forests in the Alto Palancia area. This funding aims to rehabilitate affected natural areas and prevent future fires.
- The Generalitat Valenciana allocated approximately 2 million euros in the 2024 budget for the restoration of burned forests in the Alto Palancia area. This funding aims to rehabilitate affected natural areas and prevent future fires.
Community Engagement:
- Local associations and residents have actively participated in recovery efforts, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in restoring and protecting their environment.
Involving young people in recovery and resilience initiatives is crucial for sustainable outcomes:
- Educational Programs: Implement workshops and training sessions to educate youth about wildfire prevention, forest management, and environmental stewardship.
- Volunteer Opportunities: Encourage participation in reforestation projects, trail maintenance, and community awareness campaigns.
- Leadership Development: Empower youth to lead initiatives, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility toward their community’s resilience.
By addressing the root causes, understanding the multifaceted consequences, and actively involving the community—especially its younger members—Alto Palancia can work toward a more resilient and sustainable future.

For real time wildfire risk, check out the Forest Fire Forecast on Copernicus
BEST PRACTICES
Hiking as a Journey
Organize guided “Wildfire Resilience Hikes” with specific stops along the trail where youth can learn about wildfire ecology, prevention techniques, and the local ecosystem. At each stop, they’ll discuss how factors like dense vegetation or dry foliage make certain areas more vulnerable to fire. Engage participants in trail observation exercises, encouraging them to identify potential fire hazards, such as clusters of dry leaves or excessive litter, and document their findings while brainstorming ways to mitigate similar risks.
Hands-on Restoration Projects
Hands-on restoration projects involve youth directly in forest recovery by planting fire-resistant native species, stabilizing soil, and removing debris. Participants plant seedlings, spread mulch, and install erosion controls, helping to restore fire-affected areas. These activities teach stewardship skills, highlight ecosystem recovery, and empower youth to make a visible impact, fostering a commitment to forest conservation and resilience.
Simulation Drills
Simulation drills prepare youth for wildfire emergencies by practicing evacuation routes, using communication tools, and assembling emergency kits. Partnering with local responders, they experience mock evacuations and fire response scenarios, learning crucial safety skills. These drills build confidence, reinforce preparedness, and equip youth to share safety practices, fostering a culture of resilience within their communities.
Awareness Events
Community fire awareness events empower youth to educate the public on wildfire prevention by organizing demonstrations, informational booths, and discussions. They can teach defensible space techniques, showcase fire-resistant plants, and invite local firefighters for safety talks. Hosting these events strengthens youths' knowledge, raises community awareness, and inspires proactive fire prevention measures, creating a collective commitment to protecting local forests from future fires.
INSPIRATION BOARD







Join the discussion
In response to the devastating forest fires of August 2022 in Castellón, we urge all stakeholders—governmental bodies, local communities, environmental organizations, and youth groups—to unite in a comprehensive recovery and prevention effort. Fill out the form below and we will reach out to you shortly.
Learn more about Fundacion MUSOLThis space is powered by:
