An important step
"The downgrading of the wolf marks an important step: it changes the management approach and opens a new phase, more in line with the territories and based on the balance between wildlife protection and community safety." This was explained by Giacomo Bugaro, Councillor for Hunting for the Marche Region, commenting on the Italian government decree. already published in the Official Journal, which implements the European Parliament's decision to reclassify the wolf. "This legislative change," explains Bugaro, "brings the wolf within the scope of Article 19 of Law 157 of 1992. This means that it is now up to the Regions to prepare and implement management and control plans, with a completely different approach than in the past." A decree from the Minister of the Environment and Energy Security also established the maximum number of wolves that can be harvested this year: 160 nationwide, including 8 in the Marche region.
Very clear instructions
The Marche Region, the councilor emphasizes, has been working on these issues since taking office: "As early as November 18th, we wrote to all the mayors of the Marche region, forwarding the ISPRA protocol. We also asked the prefects to convene discussions with local administrators." Specifically, the Prefect of Ancona hosted a meeting attended by the Carabinieri Forestali, ISPRA (the Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research), local administrators, and all stakeholders. Very clear recommendations emerged: mayors must adopt ordinances regarding the proper treatment of organic waste, regulate the provision of food to cat colonies and pets, and prevent urban centers from becoming sources of food for wolves.
Reports of abnormal presences
Another key issue concerns reports of unusual presences: mayors must report cases in which wolves approach residential areas in a "confident" manner. These situations must be addressed seriously, with scientific support, and without alarmism, but also without underestimating them. In light of the new regulatory framework, the Marche Region will immediately begin drafting a Wolf Management Plan. "We will begin by monitoring the presence in the area," explains Bugaro, "and, together with ISPRA and the Ministry of the Environment, we will define how to intervene in cases of problematic or potentially dangerous wolves."
Regional law
Among the new measures announced is the update to Regional Law No. 7 of 1995, which will now include compensable damages for road accidents involving wolves, a measure currently not covered. "This is a gap that must be filled," observes the councilor. "The wolf is an extraordinary species with great naturalistic value," concludes Bugaro. "Its presence must be compatible with the local environment and limited to areas with a natural vocation. Residential areas cannot become its habitat. Today, thanks to the regulatory change, we can manage this phenomenon in a balanced and responsible manner." (Source: Marche Region)
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