An unprecedented damage
“Following the discussions we had with the delegates of the trade associations and the territorial secretary of Lega Valnerina, as well as the in-depth analysis carried out, we believe that all actions must be implemented to allow Umbrian farmers to take adequate measures to combat possible infections from African swine fever (Psa), which would cause unprecedented damage to our agricultural-food economy": this was stated by the Lega councilors Marco Castellari and Manuela Puletti, who announced a motion to "request the start of a process necessary to adapt the regional legislation so that farmers and Umbrian farmers are allowed to create fences that are fully effective in limiting the risk of contact with wild boars and therefore of potential PSA infections".
Contrast measures
“In particular – highlight Castellari (first signatory) and Puletti – from the meetings held it emerged that the farmers, while appreciating the quality and timeliness of the contrast measures undertaken at regional level, have verified in practice the need to improve some provisions , including those relating to the height from the ground of the double fences to defend the farms from contact with wild animals. The measures serve precisely to counteract the risks of contagion, considering that the double fence represents the initial defense of the farms, in particular those in the wild and semi-wild state.
Any changes to be made
With the motion presented, we invite the competent bodies to evaluate, together with sector operators, any changes to be made to regional legislation for greater effectiveness of measures to combat Psa. In fact, we believe - conclude Castellari and Puletti - that by listening to those who are called upon to apply the rules on a daily basis, these can be improved and made more effective, overcoming bureaucratic aspects which often represent obstacles to the achievement of a community interest such as in this case the protection of typical Umbrian products” (source: Regional Council of Umbria).