Volunteers for forest fire prevention and suppression in Catalonia, Spain

Forest Defense Groups (ADF) are volunteer fire prevention and suppression organisations in Catalonia, Spain, funded by the regional government. Formed from local networks of farmers and landowners in the 1960s–70s, they evolved into a formalised network of over 3,000 volunteers, primarily active in rural areas. Established by regional law in 1986, their mission includes preventing forest fires, enabling rapid suppression, and supporting post-fire reforestation. The ADF plays a critical role in enhancing community resilience across high-risk Mediterranean regions through collaboration with local institutions and fire management bodies.