The regional government has prepared 300,000 kilos of forage and 10 water tanks to supply the livestock farms affected by the fire. Up to 14 farms have already requested this aid, which will benefit nearly 1,000 animals.
The President of the Community of Madrid, Isabel Díaz Ayuso, announced on Wednesday the dispatch of 300,000 kilos of forage, distributed in 20 trailers, and the provision of 10 water tanks of 1,000 litres each to assist the livestock farms affected by the forest fire ravaging the region. The measure aims to ensure the feeding and welfare of the animals as soon as safety conditions allow access to the affected areas.
According to sources from the regional government, so far 14 farms have requested this support, which will benefit nearly 1,000 animals, including cows, sheep, goats, and horses. The distribution of forage and water will be carried out in coordination with emergency services, prioritising the farms closest to the areas where the fire has already been controlled.
This initiative is part of the emergency plan activated by the Community of Madrid to address the consequences of the fire, which has devastated thousands of hectares in the western part of the region. In addition to direct aid to farmers, the regional government has established a procedure to facilitate access to farms located in areas free of flames, provided that safety measures are met.
To access agricultural and livestock properties where there are still restrictions on passage, it will be mandatory to present a document that proves ownership of a valid livestock farm. Valid documents include the livestock registration card, registration in the General Register of Livestock Farms (REGA), or the application for the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).
This measure responds to cases of impersonation of the status of livestock farmer, as explained by the Ministry of the Environment. The aim is to strengthen access controls to the affected areas, while ensuring the passage of legitimate owners and their mobility under safe conditions.
The regional government has emphasised that the priority is to ensure the welfare of animals, both from livestock farms and pets. Several animals have been transferred to the Comprehensive Animal Reception Centre (CIAAM) of the Community of Madrid, while close collaboration is maintained with the shelters in the affected municipalities to coordinate the reception of companion animals.
Farmers who have not yet requested aid can do so through the channels established by the Ministry of the Environment, Agriculture and Interior. It is recommended to contact the regional agricultural offices or the emergency services deployed on the ground.
The fire, which began last weekend, has forced the evacuation of several population centres and has caused significant material damage. Extinguishing efforts continue, with the hope that improving weather conditions will allow progress in controlling the fire.
