Legambiente reports severe microbial pollution in Vevera stream and presents water‑quality data for Sila lakes

Legambiente’s 2026 “Goletta dei Laghi” monitoring campaign revealed that the Vevera stream at its mouth in Arona remains heavily polluted. microbiological analysis showed Enterococci levels of 1,300 MPN/100 ml, more than twice the legal limit of 500 MPN/100 ml, while Escherichia coli stayed within limits (733 MPN/100 ml). The high contamination threatens the bathing suitability of nearby municipal beaches and poses a risk of gastrointestinal infections for swimmers.

In Calabria, Legambiente presented the results of its water‑quality surveys for the Sila lakes – Arvo, Cecita, Ampollino, Passante and Ariamacina – during a press conference in San Giovanni in Fiore. The dossier “Laghi Silani 2026” outlined the ecological status of these alpine reservoirs and highlighted key environmental challenges, aiming to guide future conservation actions.

Both assessments are part of a nationwide effort to monitor and protect Italy’s freshwater ecosystems under EU water‑framework directives.