The request, formalized through a letter from the Minister of Territory, Housing and Ecological Transition, Sílvia Paneque, emphasizes the importance of modifying the park's current boundaries. This measure seeks to promote ecological continuity and the conservation objectives of the protected natural area.
Currently, the Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park covers 40,852 hectares, of which 14,119 correspond to the strict park area and 26,733 to the peripheral protection zone. The proposed expansion aims to strengthen the ecological coherence of the protected area, especially towards the southeast sector, including the headwaters of the Vall Fosca.
Furthermore, the plan includes completing the perimeter to the west, in the Besiberri sector, within the Decentralized Municipal Entity of Senet, in Alta Ribagorça. This area is already part of the Natura 2000 Network as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and a Special Protection Area for Birds (SPA).
“"The need to modify the park's boundaries is determined by favoring ecological continuity and connectivity and conservation objectives."
The Autonomous Organization of National Parks has already opened the prior public consultation process through its website, following the Minister's request. This period for public participation will extend until May 21, allowing the public and interested parties to submit their contributions.
The park's expansion will contribute to the increase of natural systems and the improvement of the capacity to sustain ecological processes, fostering greater continuity of flora and fauna populations. Among the species that will benefit are the white partridge and the bearded vulture, which face varying levels of threat.
