Community gets involved in great tree planting project

Malaga Province is asking residents to get their hands dirty this autumn, with four free tree-planting days planned across the Axarquia and Serrania de Ronda.

Around 2,400 trees and shrubs will be planted during October and November as part of the Diputacion de Malaga’s Malaga Viva environmental programme. The scheme is open to local people and gives expats a chance to meet other residents, Spanish and foreign, while helping the countryside.

Four chances to plant a tree

The first event takes place in Parauta on Sunday, October 18, around the children’s park. Volunteers will plant carob, holm oak, mastic and oleander, plus rosemary, lavender and thyme. Registration closes on October 14.

Algarrobo follows on Sunday, October 25, at Parque de La Vega beside the Algarrobo River. Species will include carob, wild olive, mastic, poplar and tamarisk. Registration runs from October 13 to 21.

Canillas de Aceituno hosts its planting day on November 22 near the monument to grape growers. La Viñuela follows on November 29 at the recreational area beside the reservoir.

A chance for expats to get involved

Participation is free and voluntary, making the scheme an easy option for anyone wanting to spend a few hours outdoors while doing something practical for the local environment.

Each event also has a social side. Residents from the host municipality will take part, while the provincial council is providing a 50-seat coach from Malaga for each activity. Another 50 local residents are hoped for.

Malaga Viva says the programme is designed to help fight soil erosion and climate change, protect biodiversity and encourage people to take greater care of their natural surroundings.

How to take part

Registration is handled through the Malaga Viva website, with each planting day having its own registration window. Interested residents should check the dates and register when their chosen event opens.

For expats, it is a chance to plant trees, meet locals and give something back to the host community.