In recent weeks, the Valle dell’Aterno Model Forest has undertaken several significant initiatives aimed at fostering environmental awareness, promoting sustainable development, and engaging the local community in innovative projects.
Study on community perception of forests
As part of a project funded by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Sovereignty, and Forests, the Valle dell’Aterno Model Forest commissioned a study on the community's perception of forests. The research, led by the Cartolab Laboratory of the University of L’Aquila, seeks to understand how local residents value and interact with their forested landscapes.
The findings of the study are being shared through three public events, held on November 15, 22, and 29 in Secinaro, San Demetrio Ne’ Vestini, and Fagnano Alto, respectively. These meetings aim to spark dialogue among residents and stakeholders, fostering a deeper connection between the community and its natural environment.
Launch of the STAI Project
On Sunday, November 10, the Valle dell’Aterno Model Forest officially presented its new STAI Project. This initiative focuses on strengthening the skills and tools of the socio-economic fabric in the Media Valle Aterno and the Valle Subequana to boost the agrosilvopastoral sector. The project, funded by ActionAid and the Realizza il Cambiamento Foundation, is the result of collaborative efforts by a team of young professionals affiliated with the Model Forest.
The project’s presentation took place in Goriano Valli, with the participation of key partners, including the Gran Sasso Science Institute (GSSI), the University of L’Aquila, Slow Food Abruzzo, the Sirente Velino Regional Natural Park, and several local municipalities such as San Demetrio Ne’ Vestini, Tione degli Abruzzi, and Fagnano Alto.
The STAI Project represents a significant step toward sustainable rural development by equipping communities with the tools and knowledge to enhance traditional practices in agriculture, forestry, and pastoralism.
Monumental Trees Census Project
The Valle dell’Aterno Model Forest has also initiated a project to catalog the monumental trees of the valley, in collaboration with the Forestry and Culture Commissions and a team of experts, including Francesco Contu from the Abruzzo Region Forestry Office, Professor Lina Calandra and her Cartolab team from the University of L’Aquila, Annalisa Spalazzi of GSSI, and botanist Giampiero Ciaschetti.
The census project aims to identify, document, and valorize these remarkable trees, which hold ecological, historical, and cultural significance. By engaging the community in this effort, the initiative seeks to strengthen local stewardship of natural heritage while enhancing environmental education.
A Vision for the Future
Through these projects, the Valle dell’Aterno Model Forest continues to build on its mission to integrate environmental sustainability with community development. By addressing issues such as forest perception, sustainable rural practices, and the conservation of monumental trees, the Model Forest is creating a framework for resilience and growth in the region.
These efforts underline the importance of collaboration between institutions, experts, and local communities in achieving a balanced approach to managing natural and cultural resources.
