BTN News: The tomato industry in the Bajo Guadalquivir region of Andalusia has finally seen a resurgence, bringing optimism to local farmers and cooperatives. After enduring two consecutive harsh seasons where the fields lay barren due to severe drought, the landscape is once again colored red with ripe tomatoes. The long-awaited moment has arrived for the municipalities of Lebrija, Las Cabezas de San Juan, and Los Palacios, where the campaign to harvest industrial tomatoes is now in full swing. This year, the revival of tomato production comes as a beacon of hope for the region, driven by an unexpected turn of events earlier in the year.
This turnaround in fortunes can be traced back to the rains of last spring, particularly during the Semana Santa, a period typically marked by religious processions throughout Spain. In a twist of fate, the heavy rains that dampened these celebrations brought new life to the agricultural lands of Andalusia. These unexpected downpours provided the much-needed water that allowed farmers to plant their crops in April and May, giving them the opportunity to revive the tomato fields after two years of being idle.
The reopening of the factory in Lebrija, operated by the cooperative Las Marismas, stands as a symbol of this revival. For two years, this vital processing facility remained closed, unable to function due to the lack of produce. Now, as the factory’s doors open and the machinery roars back to life, the sense of optimism is palpable. The factory is expected to process an impressive volume of tomatoes, with the cooperative anticipating yields that align with historical averages. José Tejero, the representative of Cooperativas Agro-Alimentarias de AndalucÃa, has expressed confidence in the season, highlighting the fact that the land, having had a period of rest, is now poised to deliver a strong harvest.
While the area under cultivation this year, about 1,100 hectares, is smaller compared to the 1,700 hectares planted in 2021, the quality of the soil, rejuvenated by the rest and the recent rains, promises a yield of approximately 120,000 kilograms per hectare. This yield is expected to meet or even exceed the historical average, providing a much-needed boost to the local economy.
The entire region is now rallying behind this renewed campaign, with farmers, cooperative members, and the local community united in their efforts to make the most of this season. The tomato industry, a vital part of Andalusia’s agricultural sector, is not just about the economic benefits it brings but also about the sense of pride and tradition it upholds. The reopening of the factory and the return to full-scale production are seen as victories after two years of challenges and setbacks.
In summary, the 2024 tomato harvesting season in the Bajo Guadalquivir region is more than just a return to business as usual. It is a celebration of resilience, a testament to the enduring spirit of the Andalusian farmers, and a promising sign of better days ahead. The community’s efforts to overcome the challenges of the past two years, coupled with the favorable weather conditions earlier this year, have set the stage for a successful harvest that could mark the beginning of a new era for the region’s tomato industry.
