Incinerator Considered for Massive Termite Infestation in Tacoronte Waste Depot
Authorities are considering an incinerator among other measures to combat a severe American termite infestation affecting over 7,000 cubic meters of plant waste in La Caridad, Tacoronte.
Authorities are considering building an incinerator to deal with a severe American termite infestation in La Caridad, Tacoronte. The termites are found in over 7,000 cubic meters of plant waste stored at a local depot.
This waste is difficult to dispose of and belongs to the company managing the municipal gardening services. Representatives from the City Council, Island Council, pest control company, and green space contractors met to discuss the issue.
The idea of an incinerator is one of several options that will be presented to residents and community groups at a meeting tonight. The meeting was originally scheduled for last week but was postponed due to Storm Claudia.
A major concern is how far the termites might have spread. The plant waste, which has been treated and used across Tacoronte and for compost, could have helped the infestation spread.
Officials are also looking into temporarily confining plant material until they can fully assess the extent of the termite problem. The current 500-meter protection zone might not be enough.
It's unclear exactly when the American termite first appeared in La Caridad, but estimates range from four to six years ago. The current gardening service contractor has only been in the area for two years.
The Island Council of Tenerife confirmed on the 3rd of the month that they were working to eliminate the termite focus in La Caridad. They are supporting the City Council's efforts. Once the termites were identified, a protocol was put in place to control them.
Teams from the Island Council, a specialized pest control company, and the Tacoronte City Council have been on-site. An informative meeting for residents was announced as a preventive measure.
The American subterranean termite (Reticulitermes flavipes) was first found in La Laguna and Tacoronte in 2017. While it was successfully eliminated in other areas like Arona, Adeje, and Santiago del Teide, the infestation in Tacoronte has not been contained due to the large affected area.