Tuscany farmers urge structural measures to combat wolf predation

Confcooperative Agroalimentare e Pesca Toscana is calling on the Tuscany Region to implement a more robust strategy to protect sheep and goat farms from wolf attacks. Luciano Nucci, president of the regional federation, stated that traditional measures like fencing and post-attack damage reimbursements are no longer sufficient to ensure the viability of agricultural businesses in rural areas.

The organization is proposing structural interventions, including financial support to modernize and secure stables. Nucci suggested that farmers should be assisted in transitioning or integrating different sheep breeds, specifically moving from the Sarda breed to the Lacaune breed where feasible. The Lacaune breed is noted for its suitability for stationary or semi-stationary farming systems, allowing animals to be housed in protected structures during high-risk periods.

Additionally, the transition to the Lacaune breed is expected to offer better prospects for milk production, dairy yield, and labor mechanization. These improvements are seen as essential to making the profession more attractive to younger generations and preventing the abandonment of rural territories. The request includes specific subsidies for purchasing livestock, upgrading facilities, and providing technical assistance.