The Basso Garda Civil Protection Volunteer Association is making an urgent appeal for the safeguarding of the lake ecosystem. The request is directed at all citizens and businesses, with the aim of acquiring an equipped inflatable boat for the Divers Group, which is essential for carrying out cleaning and monitoring interventions in the waters of Lake Garda.
An Ecosystem Under Pressure
Lake Garda, renowned for its natural beauty, is currently threatened by a variety of waste that compromises the health of its waters. Plastic, metals, industrial waste, and abandoned fishing nets are accumulating on the lakebed, damaging aquatic biodiversity and the ecological balance of the area. The divers group has observed an increase in mortality among fish and aquatic plants due to the presence of these polluting materials.
The main mission of the Divers Unit is to clean the lake of harmful substances. While interventions are regularly carried out from the beaches, many areas remain inaccessible without suitable vessels. These zones require urgent operations to ensure the health of the ecosystem.
Ghost Nets: A Silent Threat
Among the most concerning types of waste are “ghost nets,” abandoned fishing nets that can remain in the water for years. These nets not only entrap fish and birds but also contribute to plastic pollution and the spread of invasive species. The divers group has already recovered several specimens caught in the nets, highlighting the urgency for preventive actions.
To address this problem, a rapid and coordinated response is necessary; indeed, without a suitable inflatable boat, it will not be possible to recover these nets or effectively monitor the lakebed.
Resources Needed for Safe Operations
The Divers Unit of the Basso Garda Civil Protection is equipped with the skills and necessary equipment to carry out underwater activities safely. However, the lack of an adequate inflatable boat significantly limits their operations. This vessel must be able to transport 5 to 10 divers with their equipment and be ready to intervene in case of emergencies in other areas of the Lombard lakes as well.
Currently, €45,000 has been raised through donations; an additional €15,000 is still needed to reach the target necessary for the purchase of the inflatable boat.
The Crucial Role of Volunteers
The Basso Garda Civil Protection Volunteer Association operates in the Third Sector as a non-profit entity registered with the Regional Volunteer Register of Lombardy. Volunteers are dedicated to continuous training through specialized courses, preparing to tackle any emergency in the area.
The internal units of the association include both the Nautical Unit and the Divers Unit, both engaged in environmental remediation and search and rescue operations in the lake basin.
The protection of natural environments is a fundamental priority not only for local wildlife but also for those who live in and visit this wonderful area of Italy.
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