Mallorca farm set to become Balearics’ first test site

Mallorca is set to host the Balearic Islands’ first publicly owned farm test site: the regional government approves the €5.1 million purchase of the Son Bordils estate. The decision, made on 2 October 2026, covers about 70.5 hectares where crops and livestock could be studied under island conditions.

Why the islands need their own test site

Until now, farm trials have taken place occasionally on public land or through agreements with private farms. The government says the Balearics are the only Spanish autonomous community without a test farm of their own that has enough suitable land.

Water is limited, and the islands face challenges linked to their Mediterranean climate and climate change. Research from elsewhere cannot always be applied directly to farms here.

What could happen at Son Bordils

The estate already has farm buildings and an electricity supply. It lies near the Costitx wastewater treatment plant and the Inca irrigation reservoir, so the government wants to explore using treated water for irrigation.

Planned trials include crops, irrigation and fertilisation, as well as research into local animal breeds. The government intends to adapt and expand the facilities gradually. It wants the findings to help farmers and livestock keepers make decisions about their businesses.

Topics: Agriculture · Health · Politics · Economy · Costitx · Inca

Source: Europa Press / Mallorca.com