Description
In the protected areas of Trentino and neighbouring territories, pastoral activities and the management of pastures are key elements of the region’s identity, an expression of local tradition and a fundamental safeguard for the protection of biodiversity.
An analysis of grassland ecosystems reveals how, over the centuries, constant, integrated and informed human intervention has helped to preserve hospitable and resilient habitats.
Grasslands and pastureland, interspersed with wooded areas, create ecological mosaics that are ideal for numerous species. This dynamic not only increases overall biodiversity but also promotes structural soil improvement, active landscape maintenance and the ecological regeneration of the area.
The training course for Alpine Guides and Mid-Mountain Guides is available in two sessions. Thetwo days cover the same topics, but the experts provide specific examples and activities related to their respective regions.
16 September 2026 – Adamello Brenta Nature Park
Malga Lodranega (Sella Giudicarie)
Time: 9.30–15.30
Programme
Alpine pastures and the mountain farmer as landscape-shaper – Alessandro de Bertolini, Trentino Historical Museum Foundation.
Alpine farming is one of the most distinctive activities in the Alps. This talk focuses on the history of Trentino’s agricultural landscapes and the changes they have undergone.
The system of protected areas: the Parks, the Habitats Directive and the Natura 2000 Network – conservation strategy and the role of agro-pastoral practices – Luigina Armani, Scientific Research, Environmental Education and Public Engagement Department of the PNAB
According to European regulations, traditional human interventions in semi-natural environments are no longer regarded as disruptive factors, but rather as indispensable safeguards for the preservation of biological diversity and fundamental components of active management plans. In this context, the system of mountain pastures and alpine grazing is the perfect example of this synergy.
Large carnivores, pastures and mountain pastures; the importance of damage prevention – Andrea Mustoni, PNAB Scientific Research Unit and mountain hut managers.
The project was set up to protect the work of alpine dairy farmers and grazing livestock from incursions by bears and wolves, using acoustic and light deterrents.
Organisational details:
The meeting point is at Malga Lodranega. The activity takes place outdoors, near the mountain hut. Participants are responsible for their own packed lunch. Info: Park office, tel. 0465 806666.
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17 September 2026 – Paneveggio Pale di San Martino Nature Park
Villa Welsperg (Primiero)
Time: 9.30–15.30
Programme
Mountain pastures and the mountain farmer as landscape shaper – Gianfranco Bettega, local historian, and Enrico Sturaro, University of Padua
The evolution of built structures (huts and mountain pastures) and changes in land use in semi-natural environments. Alpine farming: management aspects of pastures, restoration and regeneration of grazing areas, the relationship between human activities and wildlife.
The system of protected areas: the Parks, the Habitats Directive and the Natura 2000 network – the conservation strategy and the role of agro-pastoral practices – Piergiovanni Partel, Park Research and Conservation Department
Examples of environmental improvements to meadows and pastures and measures to prevent damage caused by large predators on small sheep and goat farms
Keeping sheep as a hobby in the Park– Enzo De Menech (Bubu), mountaineer and farmer at the farmstead in Rodena.
Open discussion with the mountaineer and farmer
Organisational details:
The meeting point is at Villa Welsperg in Val Canali. The event will take place outdoors, at the villa and in the Col dei Cistri area. Participants are responsible for their own packed lunch. Info: Park office, tel. 0439 64854
