February 19th Seminar: "Monumental Trees: Natural Assets of Collective Interest"

On Thursday 19 February 2026, at 3.30 pm, the technical-informative seminar will be held in the “FS Nesci” Seminar Room of the Department of Agriculture of the University of Reggio Calabria

The initiative is part of the training and third mission activities promoted by the Degree Course in Forestry and Environmental Sciences and aims to place the value of monumental trees at the center of public and institutional attention as elements of landscape identity, natural heritage of high ecological, historical, cultural and social value, as well as tools for environmental education and collective awareness. 
Institutional greetings will be provided by Prof. Giuseppe Zimbalatti , Rector of the Università Mediterranea di Reggio Calabria; Prof. Marco Poiana , Director of the Department of Agriculture; Col. RFI Giovanni Misceo , Commander of the Carabinieri Forestry Region "Calabria", with a reference to the strategic role played by the Force in the management, protection and enhancement of monumental trees. The work will be coordinated and moderated by Prof. Andrea R. Proto , Coordinator of the Three-Year Degree Course in Forestry and Environmental Sciences.
During the seminar, speeches will be given by Avv. Domenico Droghini , Environmental Delegate for the Municipality of Praia a Mare, will illustrate his experience managing the Avenue of Monumental Trees in his city; and Dr. Gianni Posillipo , President of the Aspromonte Section of the CAI of Reggio Calabria, will present the outreach activities promoted by the association for the promotion of monumental trees. The technical presentations will offer a broad and multidisciplinary overview of the topic of monumental trees, addressing it from the regulatory, economic-evaluative, naturalistic, and applied research perspectives. The aim is to offer participants a comprehensive understanding of their value and the most effective methods for protection and management. Attorney Francesco Bevilacqua , a writer and expert on Calabria's natural heritage, will offer a reflection on the cultural, identity, and landscape significance of monumental trees, highlighting their role in the memory of places and in the relationship between community and territory. Professor Anna De Luca , professor of Economic Valuation of Forestry and Environmental Goods and Services, will explore the topic of quantifying the economic value associated with these trees, illustrating tools and criteria useful for supporting decisions regarding their protection and enhancement. Dr. Alfonso Picone Chiodo , a member of the Italian Alpine Club (CAI) and nature communicator, will present field experiences and outreach activities aimed at raising awareness among citizens and hikers about the importance of monumental trees as central elements of the forest and rural landscape. Dr. Salvatore F. Papandrea, a research fellow at the Department of Agriculture, will present applied research and technical-scientific methodologies for monitoring and assessing the conservation status of monumental trees, with particular reference to experiences gained in the region. The event will conclude with a discussion open to the public, students, forestry and environmental professionals, administrators, and all citizens interested in the protection of monumental trees. The meeting provides an opportunity for discussion between academia, institutions, associations, and the local community, with the aim of strengthening awareness of the collective value of monumental trees and promoting best practices for their protection, management, and enhancement.