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
Project website
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