Andorra Approves First National Park Covering 18.9% of Territory

Andorra's government will guarantee by law an annual contribution of around 440,000 euros starting in 2027 to finance the new national natural park in the Canillo and Ordino valleys. The bill, now entering parliamentary proceedings, also includes an immediate initial allocation of 100,000 euros from this year's budget to establish a public foundation for park operations once approved.

Environment, Agriculture and Livestock Minister Guillem Casal outlined the funding details today as the 8,834-hectare project—covering 18.88% of Andorra's territory—advances. Combined with existing protected areas, it will raise the total safeguarded land to 30.94%. The measure, presented alongside Canillo mayor Jordi Alcobé and Ordino mayor Maria del Mar Coma, secured Council of Ministers approval on Wednesday. Casal aims for parliamentary approval before year's end.

The park encompasses 7,224 hectares in Canillo and 1,611 in Ordino. It prioritizes ecosystem preservation, habitat and species protection, landscape maintenance, traditional activities, environmental research, education, and controlled tourism to support sustainable development in the parishes.

Designated zones will feature varying restrictions, from moderate-use areas to reserves with limited access. Permitted activities include livestock farming, agriculture, hunting and fishing, while new roads, cable cars and tourist facilities will be barred if they harm conservation goals.

A management plan, due within one year of approval, will detail permitted uses, visitor limits, prohibitions and penalties. A steering board will oversee operations, with three representatives each from Canillo and Ordino, plus two from the government. The parishes will retain control over their territories through this body, directing funds toward forest fire prevention, native species protection and maintenance of rivers and ponds.

State funding commits to a minimum of 50 euros per hectare annually from 2027, totaling 441,700 euros, with matching contributions from the parishes. The initial 100,000-euro outlay is already budgeted. The project follows a 2025 agreement between the government and the two parishes, endorsed by the CENBA environmental authority.