“I believe agriculture and ecology are inseparable — two sides of the same coin.
Those who farm and raise animals must work with nature, not against it.”
Carlo Petrini
President of Slow Food International
By definition, an agroecosystem is a delicate and unstable environment, deeply shaped by human activity. Our aim is to enhance the quality and richness of biodiversity in our cultivated areas, helping to restore a more balanced and self-sustaining ecosystem — one that’s not only more beautiful but also requires less intervention from the farmer.
To boost and safeguard biodiversity across our land, we’ve launched a series of concrete actions gathered under a single initiative called the Farm Nature Plan (click here to learn more).
In this video, biologist and naturalist Marco Meneguz takes us on a guided walk through woods, meadows, and vineyards, sharing a closer look at the work being done as part of the Farm Nature Plan.
By definition, an agroecosystem is a delicate and unstable environment, deeply shaped by human activity. Our aim is to enhance the quality and richness of biodiversity in our cultivated areas, helping to restore a more balanced and self-sustaining ecosystem — one that’s not only more beautiful but also requires less intervention from the farmer.
To boost and safeguard biodiversity across our land, we’ve launched a series of concrete actions gathered under a single initiative called the Farm Nature Plan (click here to learn more).
In this video, biologist and naturalist Marco Meneguz takes us on a guided walk through woods, meadows, and vineyards, sharing a closer look at the work being done as part of the Farm Nature Plan.
CONSERVATION AND MONITORING OF BIODIVERSITY
IN THE AGRICULTURAL ECOSYSTEM OF CASCINA BELMONTE
A HAVEN FOR BUTTERFLIES
We’ve worked to improve habitat quality by enhancing the floral diversity of permanent meadows, adjusting mowing schedules, and increasing the presence of nectar-rich plants.
The many butterflies now thriving here are a sign of a healthy and balanced environment.
In Simona Tonoli’s photographs, you can spot Argynnis paphia, Melanargia galathea, and Melitaea didyma.
WE PLANT FLOWERS AND PRESERVE MEADOWS
We’ve kept uncultivated grassy areas as vital habitats where insects can feed, rest, and reproduce. Mowing takes place only after flowering, allowing nectar and pollen production, and supporting the full life cycle of butterflies and other beneficial insects.
Our hedgerows provide food and shelter for over 60 bird species and 28 species of mammals.
BEES AND VINEYARDS
On 20% of our cultivated land, we grow PIWI grape varieties — naturally resistant to the main vine diseases — which allows us to cut down copper and sulfur use by around 80%. This results in a significant overall reduction in environmental impact.
Near our vineyards, we keep beehives — a living symbol of a clean, healthy ecosystem.
RESPECT AND LOVE FOR NATURE
We’ve created a raised-bed vegetable garden, a small herb garden, and a young orchard with heirloom fruit varieties selected in collaboration with the Omezzoli Nursery in Riva.
These spaces are designed to offer children from the local preschool the chance to grow up in close contact with nature.
CONSERVATION AND MONITORING OF BIODIVERSITY
IN THE AGRICULTURAL ECOSYSTEM OF CASCINA BELMONTE
A HAVEN FOR BUTTERFLIES
We’ve worked to improve habitat quality by enhancing the floral diversity of permanent meadows, adjusting mowing schedules, and increasing the presence of nectar-rich plants.
The many butterflies now thriving here are a sign of a healthy and balanced environment.
In Simona Tonoli’s photographs, you can spot Argynnis paphia, Melanargia galathea, and Melitaea didyma.
WE PLANT FLOWERS AND PRESERVE MEADOWS
We’ve kept uncultivated grassy areas as vital habitats where insects can feed, rest, and reproduce. Mowing takes place only after flowering, allowing nectar and pollen production, and supporting the full life cycle of butterflies and other beneficial insects.
Our hedgerows provide food and shelter for over 60 bird species and 28 species of mammals.
BEES AND VINEYARDS
On 20% of our cultivated land, we grow PIWI grape varieties — naturally resistant to the main vine diseases — which allows us to cut down copper and sulfur use by around 80%. This results in a significant overall reduction in environmental impact.
Near our vineyards, we keep beehives — a living symbol of a clean, healthy ecosystem.
RESPECT AND LOVE FOR NATURE
We’ve created a raised-bed vegetable garden, a small herb garden, and a young orchard with heirloom fruit varieties selected in collaboration with the Omezzoli Nursery in Riva.
These spaces are designed to offer children from the local preschool the chance to grow up in close contact with nature.
FRESHWATER SPOTS
Small ponds near wooded areas serve as breeding grounds for amphibians like frogs and salamanders.
Follow the Wwoofer’s Path to explore and experience the rich biodiversity of our countryside.
Badger live in the woods just behind the farmhouse. Captured in the quiet of the night with a camera trap.
FRESHWATER SPOTS
Small ponds near wooded areas serve as breeding grounds for amphibians like frogs and salamanders.
Follow the Wwoofer’s Path to explore and experience the rich biodiversity of our countryside.
Badger live in the woods just behind the farmhouse. Captured in the quiet of the night with a camera trap.
