A vibrant landscape
The rain that has fallen in recent weeks has had a transformative impact on the forests and meadows in the area. The green and brown colors are seen in all their splendor, creating a vibrant landscape full of life. This transformation is particularly noticeable in the forests, where the leaves of the trees have acquired an intense green hue that has not been seen for years. It is a show that captivates the eye and reminds us of the beauty of nature.
A town with a pastoral history
To better understand this transformation, we approach Adraén, a small town located in the Vansa valley. Here we find Joan Alrich Obiols, the last shepherd of the valley. At 71 years old, Joan has dedicated his entire life to the work of a pastor. He was born in Adraén and grew up in this rural community. After completing his military service, he returned to the village and followed in his father’s footsteps, raising cows and sheep.
For many years, Adraén and other towns in the area were known for their livestock activity. The Cadí de la Seu d’Urgell cooperative collected the milk from the herds with tanker trucks. But over time, this activity decreased and the herds disappeared. In 2003, Joan decided to change her business and dedicated herself to raising cows for meat production. However, he still keeps a small flock of sheep and goats for entertainment and to preserve the pastoral tradition.
A witness to change
Joan is a direct witness to the changes that have affected the community over the years. He remembers how Adraén was a town full of life, with almost fifty inhabitants and a school with more than 200 students. But depopulation has been relentless and irreversible. Today, many houses are abandoned and the village has lost much of its vitality.
Despite this transformation, Joan continues to work with passion and dedication. He keeps a herd of cows that graze in the mountains during the summer and takes care of a group of sheep and goats. In addition, his nephew José is also a pastor and helps him when needed. Despite the difficulties, Joan keeps the pastoral tradition alive and is an example of resilience and love for the land.
An uncertain future
The future of Adraén and other towns in the area is uncertain. Depopulation and the abandonment of fields are serious problems affecting these rural communities. Houses are for sale and many young people decide to leave for the cities in search of new opportunities. Joan sums it up sadly: “Who do you want to buy a house if there is nothing here?”.
Despite this situation, Joan maintains hope and continues to work with enthusiasm. Enjoy nature and the little pleasures in life, such as mushroom picking. This season has been particularly good and you can still find some specimens to accompany the last days of spring.
So, the last few weeks have transformed the forests and meadows of the area into a spectacle of green and brown tones. Joan Alrich Obiols, the last shepherd of the Vansa valley, is a witness to this change and an example of resilience and love for the land. Despite the difficulties, it keeps the pastoral tradition alive and reminds us of the importance of preserving the beauty of nature.