The Government of the Principality of Asturias allocated nearly 1.7 million euros last year to environmental conservation actions, the improvement of local infrastructure, and support for activity in the Natural Park of Ponga.
The economic balance and projects were made known this Monday at meetings of the board, the governing commission, and the forum for social participation of the biosphere reserve. These meetings were chaired by the General Director of Stewardship of the Territory and Fire Prevention, David Villar, and also included the presence of the mayor of the municipality, Marta Alonso.
Among the main works carried out are the creation of a public parking lot in Sobrefoz, the improvement of the fairground area of San Juan de Beleño, the environmental restoration of the Dobros lagoon, and the recovery of water points used by livestock farming. These actions are added to maintenance tasks for roads, trails, and other infrastructure that facilitate day-to-day life for the local population and improve visiting conditions in the protected area.
The report presented highlights support for extensive livestock farming through the aids of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), compensation from the Natura 2000 Network, and specific subsidies for mountain areas.
As for public use, the Interpretation Center of the Natural Park of Ponga recorded more than 5,000 visitors during 2025. Likewise, the shuttle buses of public transport to the biosphere reserve experienced an increase in the number of users.
Finally, the regional officials have detailed the lines of action planned for the coming years, with priorities focused on improving public facilities, conserving habitats and protected species, strengthening measures to prevent wildfires, and promoting the protected area as a driver of sustainable development.