Poisoned Poplars in Riva del Garda Prompt Felling and Rehabilitation of Large Trees
Two ancient black poplars (Populus nigra) on Riva del Garda’s Spiaggia dei Pini have been declared dead after tests detected glyphosate exposure. The trees, nearly 40 meters tall with circumferences of 5.2 and 4.38 meters, are believed to be centuries old. A May 21, 2025 evaluation by Dr. Giorgio Maresi of Fondazione Edmund Mach ruled out pathogens and insect feeding; chemical analysis identified the herbicide and the base of the trunks showed numerous drill holes consistent with injection of a substance.
Municipal authorities have pursued action and remediation. After unsuccessful attempts by municipal nurseries to recover the trees with organic fertilizer injections, the Comune di Riva del Garda filed a report with the Carabinieri on May 19, 2025 for damage to public property and environmental pollution, with an estimated damage of €40,000. A second analysis dated April 7 documented further deterioration, bark detachment and more holes, leading to the assessment that the trees are dead and pose a danger. At a press conference on April 18, Mayor Alessio Zanoni and Councillor Gabriele Bertoldi announced a planned felling along the lakeside the following week, estimated at €5,000-€10,000, with a plan to replant with plane trees and, optionally, preserve one trunk as a memorial.
Italian Version