Forest fires have once again marked the summer in Spain. With more than 200.000 hectares burned so far in 2026, concern about the recovery of the forests is at its highest. However, experts agree that reforestation is not a race, but a process that requires patience and planning. Nature has its own pace, and forcing it can be counterproductive.
In this context, several autonomous communities have already launched initiatives to restore burned areas. From the Serra d'Espadà in Castellón to the Sierra Oeste in Madrid, and including the mountains of Asturias, the administrations are seeking to combine natural regeneration with targeted interventions. But when is planting really necessary? What role do volunteers play? We analyze this below.
Natural regeneration, the first option
After a fire, the temptation to plant trees quickly is strong, but experts recommend waiting and observing . The soil is a living ecosystem that harbors seeds, roots, and microorganisms that can sprout again. MarÃa Isabel Cerezo, director of the Master's Program in Environmental Engineering and Management at the International University of Valencia, explains that "grasses appear within a few months, scrubland takes two to five years, but a pine or cork oak forest needs between 20 and 40 years to regenerate into a dense woodland." Therefore, before taking any action, it is essential to assess the severity of the fire and the slope of the land.
Antonio Girona, a member of the Spanish Society of Soil Science, adds that recovery depends on multiple factors such as humidity, subsequent rainfall, and the regeneration capacity of each species. In many cases, nature takes care of itself: species like Mediterranean pines release their seeds thanks to the heat, and others sprout again from their roots. Ecological succession progresses in phases, and each plant prepares the ground for the next. Therefore, experts emphasize that planting immediately can be a mistake that damages the soil and competes with natural regeneration, always taking into account the impact of the forest fire on the soil.
Planned interventions in Spain
Despite the above, there are situations where reforestation is necessary. For example, when fire has been so intense that it has destroyed the seed bank or there is a risk of serious erosion. In these cases, the authorities act with technical plans. One example is the Castellón City Council, which will collaborate in the recovery of the Serra d'Espadà after the fires. The Councilor for the Environment, Gonzalo Romero, has met with the Director General of Natural Environment, Luis Gomis, to coordinate plantings with volunteers. The initiative includes a forest restoration plan with actions planned over 20 years, and it is expected to begin between autumn and winter. Volunteers can register by email and will be provided with a bus, tools, and meals.
Another region that has mobilized is Madrid, which will triple the production of native plants in its nurseries to restore the Sierra Oeste mountain range. Regional Minister Carlos Novillo announced that production will increase from 100.000 to 300.000 plants, including species such as holm oaks, gall oaks, and oaks. Meanwhile, Asturias has put out to tender the reforestation of the Cuesta de Coya and Ques mountain in Piloña, with 14.245 pine trees and an investment of €111.707. These actions are being carried out after prior studies and using species suited to the terrain.
The role of experts and prevention
Forestry technicians insist that land management is key to preventing future fires. Marta Corella, vice-dean of the Official College of Forestry Technicians, points out that "we cannot turn our backs on 60% of the country's forest land." Creating mosaic landscapes, with clearings and firebreaks, helps to slow the spread of flames. Furthermore, 90% of fires are caused by humans , either through negligence or intentionally, according to the State Attorney General's Office. Climate change exacerbates the situation, but fire prevention and forest management remain the best tools.
David del Rosario, an environmental agent, points out that technology, such as satellites and drones , allows for the identification of high-risk areas. However, citizen participation is essential: respecting burned areas, not lighting fires in the mountains, and supporting reforestation initiatives based on scientific criteria. Regeneration is a process that takes years , and we can all contribute to restoring the forests to their former glory.
The recovery of burned forests is a long road that combines science, patience, and collaboration. While nature does its work, government agencies and citizens must join forces to prevent future disasters. Only in this way will we ensure that our landscapes regain their splendor and continue to be the green lungs we need.