Over the past four months, the Parco della Piana Fiorentina has suffered from 14 fires, all concentrated in the “Podere la Querciola” area, a biodiversity-rich zone managed by Legambiente through Cigno Verde. Suspected arson has led Legambiente Toscana and the Cias circle of Sesto Fiorentino to file an official complaint against unknown perpetrators with the Forest Carabinieri in Florence.
A threatened natural heritage
The mayor of Sesto Fiorentino, Lorenzo Falchi, voiced grave concern, stating: “La Querciola is a treasure trove of biodiversity, a municipal asset we have invested in heavily to ensure it’s accessible to all citizens.”
The damage is extensive: around 20 hectares burned, three monitoring huts destroyed, maintenance efforts undermined, and a serious blow to local plant and animal life.
The Consortium’s efforts and support for Cigno Verde
The fires affected the floodplain area of Podere la Querciola, where the Consorzio di Bonifica 3 Medio Valdarno has carried out environmental and safety works over the years: natural barriers, fencing, native tree planting, and informative signage.
Consortium president Paolo Masetti commented: “We feel like victims too, along with Legambiente. These cowardly acts not only destroy nature but also threaten the dedication and efforts of those caring for the land. We hope the perpetrators are identified quickly.”