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In our winter, the grass is green. The combination of periodic rainfall, humidity-laden dew, and limited direct sunlight keeps Menorca’s fields lush. Many annual plants take advantage of this season to thrive.

Alongside the ancient dry-stone walls, built piece by piece, a rich variety of wild vegetation finds refuge, safe from the plow’s path. This creates an essential habitat for wildlife, offering shelter among shrubs, trees, and countless crevices between the stones.

Extensive livestock farming has been a cornerstone of Menorca’s landscape since the first settlers arrived with their animals, which already grazed freely on the island. This activity has helped preserve the fields, maintaining the island’s deep-rooted agricultural traditions.

Menorca’s rural scenery remains a source of admiration. For locals, it evokes a deep emotional connection. Visitors are struck by its unique blend of natural and cultural values. And for those who see the world through the lens of financial opportunity, it triggers visions of profit.

The economic model introduced in the second half of the 20th century, driven by tourism, brought both opportunities and threats. One of the most pressing dangers is urbanization—scattered developments that could fragment the landscape that so much effort has been made to protect.

At the turn of the century, Menorca was fortunate to have bold decision-makers aligned with a well-organized and aware society. This led to territorial planning that banned new residential use on rural land—one of the key measures that has helped shield the island from uncontrolled parceling.

But specialized teams never rest in their search for loopholes that promise quick and generous returns. And now, worrying developments are starting to emerge.

Urban planning restrictions do not apply equally to agricultural activities, which are considered responsible for managing this scenic heritage. Because of this, new structures of up to 1,500 m³ are permitted—provided they are strictly justified by primary production needs.

Moreover, some regulatory parameters can be waived under exceptional circumstances. And this is where the crack appears—the fissure that is now being used to push forward large-scale construction projects on Menorca’s rural land.

A recent exemption has authorized the construction of a brand-new building almost twice the maximum permitted volume. The justification? Agricultural production. But what happens in four years, for example, if the business claims it is no longer viable? What will become of this massive structure?

Let’s not be naive—especially at a time when Menorca is featured in every high-end real estate magazine. If the property changes hands, how will the new owner use this space? What precedent is being set with such a massive exception?

If we fail to set clear boundaries on these exonerations, we may end up with measures originally designed to support agriculture that ultimately work against it. Buildings, like Attila’s horse, leave a lasting mark—where they pass, the grass never grows again.