Pescara faces tree massacre due to scale insect infestation

The association Radici in Comune has issued a formal warning to the municipality of Pescara regarding a severe infestation of the pine scale insect, Toumeyella parvicornis. Simona Barba, president of the association, described the situation as a “massacre of our largest trees,” noting that entire streets face the imminent death of pine trees that provide shade and air purification.

Critics argue that the local administration has failed to follow scientific protocols and regional directives established in 2021 to contain the outbreak. Current interventions are described as partial and ineffective, as untreated trees quickly reinfest those that have been treated. The association is demanding comprehensive endotherapeutic treatments for all municipal pines by September 2026 and the implementation of procedures for private trees to prevent continuous reinfestation.