The conservation of the agrobiodiversity of La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park

Abstract

PurposeThis paper aims to describe the situation of the agrobiodiversity in La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park, a protected area in which the agricultural and animal husbandry sectors play a significant role. It also aims to discuss the activities promoted by the park and by other institutions aimed at conserving and promoting local agrobiodiversity.Design/methodology/approachOne of the three lines of work in the Natural Park in the field of agriculture is the recuperation, conservation and divulgation of notable and/or endangered agricultural species and varieties. This paper describes some of the work carried out in this field.FindingsThe institutions are vital in the recovery of interesting species and varieties, and in order to ensure their conservation it is essential to promote projects in which the agrarian sector can participate.Research limitations/implicationsCollaboration between the institutions and the agrarian sector is essential for the conservation of the agrobiodiversity, although the interests of farmers and the use of certain species and varieties do not always coincide.Practical implicationsThe commercial interest and the knowledge of the use and management of some of the conserved species and varieties may have been lost over time, which makes their implantation difficult. Thus, it is important to restore popular knowledge associated with all species and varieties.Originality/valueIn light of increasingly homogeneous agricultural and stock‐raising practices, activities such as those implemented by the La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park have a vital part to play in the conservation of agrobiodiversity.