A first estimate following the snow storm that hit the Venice area on 11th February 2013 shows that 250 greenhouses have been damaged, for a total of €2 million.
"250 greenhouses have collapsed, sometimes injuring farmers who were trying to clear the snow from them. The winter production of salad, cabbages and corn salad has been seriously compromised."
"There is an estimated 2 million Euro's worth of damage. Many companies have been hit, some only slightly but, on the other hand, others lost their whole production."
"Such damages to the structures mean that the problem does not only concern the current production, but future one as well: tomatoes, peppers, courgettes and aubergines are at risk," continues Stefano Valleri.
"The municipal administration has swiftly come to the aid of local commercial farms however, I think that in order to face such a difficult situation, declaring the state of natural disaster is not enough. Politics needs to intervene to assist the relationship between farmers and banks in order to support those who want to start again and re-invest," concludes Stefano.
"Such damages to the structures mean that the problem does not only concern the current production, but future one as well: tomatoes, peppers, courgettes and aubergines are at risk," continues Stefano Valleri.
"The municipal administration has swiftly come to the aid of local commercial farms however, I think that in order to face such a difficult situation, declaring the state of natural disaster is not enough. Politics needs to intervene to assist the relationship between farmers and banks in order to support those who want to start again and re-invest," concludes Stefano.
