Nov
4
Coldiretti suggest guinea-hens to battle locust invasion
November 4, 2007 |
The hot arid summer across Italy has lead to a sharp increase in locust and the Coldretti have suggested using guinea-hens instead of chemicals to control the pests. That’s a very reassuring approach to insect control especially coming from the Coldiretti, Italy’s largest farmers association. Clearly there are not enough guinea-hens on warehouse shelves to solve the problem at hand, but the fact that they made the suggestion could lead to some promising changes in the years to come. They have been inspired by positive results using the birds and not only does this help farmers in general it is a big help to organic farmers who are in need of a natural solution to the pests.
They go on to suggest that only 3 or 4 birds are needed for every hectare (2.47 acres) of farmland. A number of programs have been started in Italy. For example in Piedmont adherence to the campaign has doubled this year with 428 approved farms that have requested the guinea-hens for a total of approximately 11.000 birds. That’s 428 farms in Piedmont looking to solve insect problems without chemicals. Not only is that a great attempt at an organic solution it will mean less chemicals on our food here, but it will also protect the quality and natural flavors in food that Italian cuisine demands. If you’ve ever traveled to Italy and enjoyed a meal in a local trattoria you know what I mean.