Alexandria – The fight against alien insects in the hazelnut sector in the province of Alessandria is more critical than ever. The increase in insects such as Popillia japonica, bark beetles, scale insects and Eriophidae, combined with climate change, puts at risk a heritage that needs to be urgently defended and protected. Timely treatments therefore become fundamental to save crops, as emerged during the 17th edition of the Hazelnut Festival in Lu.
The festival hosted local entrepreneurs welcomed by Mayor Franco Alessio, who underlined the importance of valorising the territory to face future challenges. The technical insights were led by industry experts, including Giovanni Bosio of the Regional Phytosanitary Sector, Alberto Pansecchi of Coldiretti Alessandria, and Ferdinando Trisoglio of the Corilu Cooperative, with a focus on the valorization of the “Monferrato hazelnut”.
The meeting highlighted the strategies and measures to control and prevent diseases carried by parasites, which find an ideal habitat in the new climatic conditions. Giovanni Bosio discussed the hypothetical damage to the hazelnut tree caused by Popillia japonica and the possibilities of control, while Alberto Pansecchi highlighted the emergency represented by Bark beetles. Ferdinando Trisoglio instead spoke of the “Monferrato Hazelnuts” as the territory’s winning card, underlining the importance of supply chain projects to guarantee more income to companies and protect Made in Italy.
Mauro Bianco, President of Coldiretti Alessandria, reiterated the need for transparency and traceability of production, especially at a time when exotic parasites coming from distant areas are creating significant impacts on agriculture and the environment. He underlined the importance of purchasing directly from producers to support the territory and preserve the quality of Italian honey.
The conference also represented an opportunity to support the #nofakeinitaly campaign, collecting signatures to obtain the obligation of origin on all agri-food products, allowing consumers to make informed choices.
Novi Quality Awards:
- Agr. “San Sebastiano” by Camino (3,296 kg, shelling yield 49.28%)
- Agr. “Cascina Loreto” from Gabiano (4,217 kg, shelling yield 49.18%)
- Agr. “Mancin Daniele” from Odalengo Grande (3,190 kg, shelling yield 49.10%)
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