"Under the snow, bread..." No Italian proverb could be more appropriate to describe the drastic decline of blueberries on the mountains in Pistoia (Tuscany) in recent years, particularly this season.
The lack of snow during the winter has likely been the primary cause of the scarcity of this valuable wild berry, as noted by industry experts and the Union of Pistoiese Mountain Municipalities. This shortage will have a significant impact on the local economy, with an estimated loss of several million euros.
The Union of Municipalities is attempting to address this situation through the technique of "prescribed burning."
A Drastic Decline in Wild Blueberry Harvest
Giampiero Danti, owner of a company specializing in the harvesting of wild berries and mushrooms, recalls that in 1960, around 400 tons of blueberries were harvested in a season. Since then, the harvest has progressively decreased, reaching only 300 tons today.
This year, the harvest will be even lower. The lack of snow is the main contributing factor: under the snow, blueberry plants are protected from frost and do not suffer damage.
However, the cold snap that hit the area a few days before the Christmas holidays burned the leaves of the plants, worsening the situation further. This decline has heavily impacted the mountain's economy, with an estimated loss of about 2-3 million euros compared to the harvest seasons of 2014-2016.
The Causes and Solutions Proposed by the Union of Municipalities
Francesco Benesperi, head of the Union of Municipalities, confirms that the lack of snow, which acts as a thermal insulator, is the main cause of the blueberry shortage. Another cause is the reduction of pasture areas, which has led to the encroachment of other plant species, such as "paleo," which has overtaken the blueberry.
To combat this situation, the Union of Municipalities has adopted the technique of prescribed burning. "We analyze the area of interest," Benesperi explains, "and apply controlled fire to prepare the land for pasture or to promote the growth of blueberries." Benesperi emphasizes that this technique has already shown positive results in recent years.
Future Prospects
The first tangible results of prescribed burning typically appear starting from the third year. However, Andrea Catinari, president of the Pistoiese Mountain Blueberry Association, warns that blueberry production continues to shrink, primarily due to the lack of snow. Meanwhile, in recent days in Abetone, the Blueberry Festival was held, organized by the Pro Loco. Visitors could enjoy blueberry-based products in local restaurants and hotels.
Source: Il Tirreno
Photo: Danti Mirtilli
