The Agriculture Ministry on Tuesday announced a €2,5 million action plan to restore abandoned vineyard land across the island, as part of a broader effort to reduce wildfire risk and strengthen climate resilience.
The scheme, which came into force on Friday and will run until 31 December, 2029, is expected to support the restoration of approximately 2,000 acres of neglected vineyards. According to the Ministry, abandoned vineyards constitute a significant source of combustible material, increasing both the likelihood and intensity of wildfires. By bringing these areas back into active cultivation, they can function as natural firebreaks, helping to protect forests, agricultural land and local communities.
Through the implementation of the planned interventions, these areas are transformed into actively cultivated zones, which function as natural barriers to the spread of fires, substantially contributing to the protection of forests, agricultural land and local communities.
At the same time, the initiative aims to improve the overall performance and sustainability of agricultural holdings, enhance the natural environment and preserve Cyprus’ cultural and rural heritage. A central element of the scheme is the restoration of vineyards using indigenous grape varieties, supporting both climate change mitigation and adaptation, while promoting long-term resilience in the sector.
The scheme is open to very small, small and medium-sized enterprises, including both natural and legal persons, that are active in primary agricultural production and are owners, tenants or managers of abandoned vineyard plots to be restored. Eligible interventions include the uprooting of abandoned vines, the cleaning of vineyard plots, soil preparation and replanting with classified wine-producing varieties, while beneficiaries are required to apply basic cultivation practices in the new vineyards for a period of five years.
Financial support will be provided in the form of a grant covering 65% of eligible costs, based on predetermined unit rates. Specifically, €1,090 per decare will be granted for vineyard restoration at altitudes of up to 799 metres, and €1,414 per decare for vineyards located at 800 metres and above.
(Source: CNA)
