Farmers in the Camp de Tarragona carried out a strong action to highlight the drought crisis, leaving dead hazelnut trees at the doors of the Department of Agriculture in Reus and burning some in front of the headquarters of Aigües de Reus. The mobilization, which began at nine in the morning in Riudoms, aimed primarily at demanding structural solutions to guarantee the future of the hazelnut sector.
“"We do not know if the resolution will arrive, and therefore, if the farmers will be paid."
Sergi Claramunt strongly criticized the Government for the delay in resolving aid intended to uproot trees killed by the drought, a line that opened in August 2025. The union estimates that about 1,800 hectares of hazelnut trees will need to be removed. Farmers insist that agricultural water use must be prioritized over industry and tourism, and they demand that Reus use water from the Tarragona Water Consortium (CAT) instead of the Riudecanyes reservoir.
“"Agricultural activity in this area is fatally wounded."
One of the affected farmers, Josep Zacaries, explained that he has had to uproot almost 50% of his farm, between 2,500 and 3,000 hazelnut trees. He warned that the lack of publication of the resolution does not guarantee the aid, and a potential change in government could compromise the funds. Meanwhile, sources from the Department of Agriculture assured that the 45 files are being processed within usual deadlines and are expected to be resolved during February, although they depend on the 2026 budget.
In addition to the water crisis and aid, the sector is also awaiting the National Hazelnut Plan, promised by Minister Òscar Ordeig in July 2025 for the autumn. Half a year later, the plan has yet to be presented, fueling pessimism among farmers.
