Varese adopts new transhumance guidelines to protect people and livestock

The Prefecture of Varese and regional health authority ATS Insubria have issued new operational guidelines for the seasonal movement of livestock through the Varese province. The protocol aims to safeguard public safety, road and rail traffic, and animal welfare during transhumance.

The measures apply to nine local flocks—approximately 5,000 sheep and 600 goats—and also to a small number of Bergamo flocks that pass through the area en route to alpine pastures. All herds must be tracked, routes announced in advance, and a minimum distance from roads, cycle paths and public parks must be respected.

If animals stray, invade private or public land, or cause other hazards, the guidelines define rapid response actions for police and local officials. The rules were prompted by recent critical incidents, including a runner collision on the Lake Varese cycle track. "The objective is to guarantee safe transhumance while protecting animal welfare and public order," said Salvatore Gioia, director general of ATS Insubria. Prefect Salvatore Pasquariello highlighted the collaborative effort with the ATS veterinary department to provide municipalities with concrete operational tools.