A project of environmental improvement for Red deer on the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines, Central Italy

The Red deer (Cervus elaphus L.) population living on the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines had in 2006 an estimated minimum size of approximately 2275 individuals, which occur in two Regions (Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna) and four Provinces (Pistoia, Prato, Florence and Bologna). Since 2000 the population has been target of selective hunting, also in order to respond to the increasing request for concrete solutions against species impact on human activities. In this note we describe a pilot experience of projecting environmental improvement actions - such as restoration and preservation of open areas - purposely intended for Red deer. Surveys concentrated on the mountainous area of Pistoia and Sambuca Pistoiese Communes and in the territories belonging to Tuscany Regional Public Property within the competence of the Pistoiese Apennines Mountain Community or within general public competence. Here, the once pastured zones are affected by the invasion and progressive colonization of arbustive and herbaceous vegetation. Areas which are currently covered by shrubs and/or other pioneer vegetation forms have been located by means of GPS technology. For each area a descriptive paper has been realized, whose aim is including the main information recollected during field surveys jointly with data inferred from the Plan for the Forest Resource Assessment in force. 16 areas we considered fitting this project’s goals have been located, for a total extent of 21 ha: on this surface extensive vegetation cutting by mowing and mulching using mechanical machinery will be carried out in the summer 2007. Where soil position allows, superficial tillage activities with subsequent sowing of autochthonous herbaceous species are planned. In the end we evaluated intervention and correct application terms of Tuscany Forest Law no. 39/00 and Tuscany Forest Regulations (D.P.G.R. no. 48/R/03)