This economic allocation is granted to the Consortium of Environmental Policies of the Ebro Lands (COPATE) as a direct subsidy, since the previous four-year agreement expired last year. The total funding is split, with the Generalitat contributing 50%, the affected local councils 25%, and the Provincial Councils of Tarragona and Lleida the remaining 25%.
“"It was very important to guarantee that COPATE can work calmly and that people's activities and health are not harmed."
The Government delegate in the Ebro, Joan Castor Gonell, indicated that once this year's treatment funding is secured—which for black flies should begin in a few weeks—work is underway on a new agreement for the 2027-2030 period. This new deal will incorporate improvements and account for rising prices of products and human resources.
The proliferation of these pests in the Terres de l’Ebre, the Camp de Tarragona, and some regions of Lleida has severely impacted public health and quality of life. Periodic and timely treatments are crucial to curb their spread and minimize the impact on agricultural and tourism activities in the area.
