The projected production for this campaign of the Carrizales Melon, also known as 'piel de sapo', is around 450,000 kilograms. The cultivated area remains at approximately 40 hectares, although a decrease compared to last year has been registered, mainly due to planting delays caused by spring rains. The product's quality, however, is maintained compared to previous seasons.
The campaign's launch event was attended by the mayor, Pablo Ruz, accompanied by the councilor for Childhood, Family, and Seniors, Aurora Rodil, and the councilors for Environment, José Antonio Román; for Districts, Pedro José Sáez; and for Water, Juan de Dios Navarro. The president of the Irrigators' Community, Fernando Antón, explained the harvest forecasts.
This year, the campaign's godfather was Pascual Román, secretary of the Carrizales Irrigators' Community and honorary irrigator, in recognition of his career and commitment to the agricultural sector. The traditional melon cutting was performed by Mayor Pablo Ruz, councilor Aurora Rodil, and godfather Pascual Román.
Mayor Pablo Ruz highlighted the importance of "continuing to collaborate and work to produce products such as the Carrizales Melon, the Mollar Pomegranate, or the Elche Date, given the water scarcity we face in the municipality".
The Carrizales Melon is internationally recognized for its unique and sweet flavor, thanks to the soil characteristics and irrigation methods. Approximately 90% of the production will be marketed in the province of Alicante, especially in the local market, underscoring consumer confidence in this proximity product cultivated under a sustainable agricultural model.
