Growing closer
Following the recent slaughter of sheep and lambs at Rasa, on the outskirts of Varese, Cia Lombardia once again expresses strong concern for a phenomenon that in recent months has been taking on increasingly evident contours: the growing proximity of wolves to residential areas and peri-urban areas. These are no longer isolated incidents in remote mountain areas, but increasingly frequent presences near homes, farms, roads, and trails regularly used by residents and hikers. This dynamic inevitably increases the level of risk and the perception of insecurity in local communities.
The need for a special law
"The presence of wolves is growing exponentially in Lombardy, so much so that the species is no longer endangered, but it is becoming a problem for those who live and work in the area," says Lorena Miele, vice president of Cia Lombardia. "A special law is needed for wolf management, because now more than ever the situation is a major problem for agricultural businesses and livestock farmers." Dr. Miele also emphasizes that the issue cannot be addressed solely on an emotional level: "The increased funding for prevention activities is welcome, but it is not the definitive solution. It is not possible to fence off huge pastures or have a constant presence to guard the animals: this way, agricultural work becomes unsustainable."
You May Also Like ..
Fairytale visions
CIA Lombardia reiterates a fundamental point: the wolf is a wild animal. And precisely as such, it maintains predatory behavior. It's understandable that the collective imagination holds a "fairytale" vision of the wolf, no longer considered the "villain" of fairy tales. Indeed, the eradication of the species, which represents an element of biodiversity, is not up for discussion. What is strongly advocated, instead, is balanced management that keeps the wolf away from people, residential areas, and livestock farms, preventing the progressive loss of distrust toward humans from transforming a natural presence into a structural security problem. The increase in sightings near homes and farms not only causes economic damage to farmers, but also potential risks to pets and people, with particular concern for children and families who live in or frequent rural areas.
The economy of the territories
"It's time to listen to those working in the local area and provide concrete tools to defend ourselves before the situation becomes unsustainable," the vice president of Cia Lombardia has reiterated on several occasions, stressing the need for constant monitoring, adequate regulatory tools, and targeted interventions in the most critical areas. Another aspect concerns the local economy. Many of the areas affected by the stable presence of packs are popular destinations for hikers, athletes, and vacationers year-round. The increased presence of wolves near residential areas risks negatively impacting tourism and local economic vitality, generating concerns that will impact accommodations, restaurants, and related businesses. Cia Lombardia therefore renews its appeal to regional and national institutions to implement concrete, timely, and balanced management measures, with a view to a viable yet safe coexistence that protects biodiversity, agricultural work, and the serenity of communities.
