Disminuir el texto Aumentar el texto

Base de Datos de Proyectos de PDR

Increasing the value of chestnut trees through tourism

Summary

Thanks to support from the EAFRD this project allowed to make publicly owned chestnut trees a tourist attraction for nature and food lovers and to recuperate its rural heritage.

Background

Prior to this project, the chestnut tree culture was going to be lost in the Modenese and Reggiano Apennines. It was becoming difficult to plant or acquire new trees and the majority of the existing plantations were abandoned or infested by diseases. The ‘Antico Frignano and Appennino Reggiano’ Local Action Group found a way to recover several hectares of chestnut trees and transform the space into an attraction for tourists, while recuperating this cultural heritage.

Objective

The main objectives were: i) to spread awareness among the citizens in the nearest urban area regarding “The chestnut tree culture” as an opportunity to develop knowledge and competences regarding harvest, conservation and consumption; ii) to experiment a new way of living the territory as a tourist and offer recreational attractions compatible with the environment; iii) to enhance direct sale of chestnuts and environmental education in schools.

Main activities

The project required to recover and graft 12 hectares of chestnut trees and set the area to allow for tourist and recreational activities. Therefore, picnic areas were built and set up with drinking fountains, barbecue facilities and paths. New interior furniture was also purchased to carry out educational activities and appropriate outdoor signage was set up, to facilitate the access.

Results & Benefits

The main results achieved so far are: i) an extension of 12 hectares of chestnut trees recovered and grafted and the setting up of 5 picnic areas; ii) participating in chestnut fairs to promote the initiative; iii) to facilitate communication in-situ, 3 public Wi-Fi hotspots have been set-up. On the other hand a few weaknesses remain: a great number of chestnut trees in the LEADER area are still abandoned and infected by diseases; there is a serious risk to lose this cultural heritage.

Lessons learnt

This project demonstrates that it is possible to recuperate the value of an ancient tradition while increasing opportunities for tourism business, in line with environmental requirements. Indeed, this project has had a positive economic impact in the area (e.g. more visitors) and it has served to raise awareness in the local schools to ensure that this cultural heritage is preserved.

Project location and other information

The “ANTICO FRIGNANO E APPENNINO REGGIANO” LAG, Modenese and Reggiano Apennines, Emilia Romagna

Region

Emilia Romagna

RDP Territory

Emilia-Romagna

Total project cost (€)

100 000

EAFRD contribution (€)

83 000

Private contribution (€)

16 500

Other funding sources (€)

500

Contact name

Nerino Gallerani

Telephone

00 39 059 821 149

Languages for contact

English, Italian

At a glance

Country

Italy

Final beneficiary type

Public/local authorities, Local Action Group

Budget range

€100 000 - €500 000

Start date:

06/01/2011

End Date:

31/12/2011

Theme / Measure:

• Implementing the LEADER Approach
• Implementing local development strategies
• 411. Competitiveness

Keywords:

Added-value, Rural heritage, Rural tourism, Leader, Education

Last update

17/05/2012