The severe wildfires currently affecting Mount Vesuvius have raised alarm over biodiversity loss and potential threats to the region’s agricultural treasures.
While the flames have devastated approximately 500 hectares of vegetation across a two-to-three-kilometer front, swift firefighting intervention has safeguarded most of the area’s prized crops, including the renowned Lacryma Christi PDO vineyards and Piennolo PDO cherry tomatoes.
Nicola Caputo, Regional Assessor for Agriculture of Campania, provided reassurance following his inspection of the fire-hit zones within Vesuvius National Park. “Only 1% of the 260 hectares of Lacryma Christi vineyards have been affected by the fire,” he confirmed, crediting the rapid response of firefighting teams and Civil Protection units. While woodland heritage has suffered significant damage, agricultural landscapes—a cornerstone of the region’s identity—have been preserved.
Wine and agricultural consortia also expressed relief. Ciro Giordano, president of Consorzio dei Vini del Vesuvio, noted: “We feared the worst for our vineyards, which represent a unique wine-growing landscape in the world. Thanks to coordinated efforts, we are protecting an agricultural and cultural heritage of absolute value.” Similarly, Cristina Leardi, president of Consorzio Pomodorino del Piennolo del Vesuvio DOP, confirmed that tomato crops remain intact despite the fire’s proximity.
While the blaze continues, regional authorities are already focusing on recovery and long-term protection. Caputo announced that a coordination task force will be established with municipalities, the Vesuvius National Park, SMA Campania, and other relevant bodies to oversee restoration efforts. Planned actions include:
- Monitoring burned areas to prevent reignitions and clear flammable materials.
- Creating firebreak zones and tracks to contain future outbreaks.
- Mapping hydrogeological risks by identifying hazardous dead trees and unstable terrain.
- Reclaiming land with anti-erosion measures, supported by hydraulic-forestry teams.
- Restoring vegetation and ecosystems, using regional nurseries for reforestation.
- Compensating affected farms, particularly vineyards, olive groves, orchards, and other local crops.
To fund these measures, the Campania Region has committed to mobilizing regional, national, and EU resources. “Our absolute priority is to contain the emergency and protect citizens and territory, especially highly exposed areas such as the Terzigno pine forest, the Tirone Integral Reserve, and the towns of Trecase, Ercolano, and Ottaviano,” Caputo stressed.
Mount Vesuvius is not only a natural symbol but also a vital agricultural and cultural landscape. As efforts continue to extinguish the current wildfire, the coordinated response highlights both the fragility and resilience of one of Italy’s most emblematic territories.
Source: WineNews