Renzo Panzacchi, president of chestnut producers from the Bologna Apennines, reports that it has been a year to forget for the chestnut production in the region between Valsamoggia and Valle del Senio, yet the situation is not much better in Modena, Reggio Emilia and Parma.
"The situation is dire, as production dropped by 60-70%. In Castel del Rio, quantities dropped by as much as 90%."
A series of negative factors contributed: temperatures dropped in May, with frost and snow on the Apennines affecting pollination. In addition, insects damaged more produce than usual as there were few husks."
"Prices were very high, though they do not compensate for the missing gross saleable production. First-choice chestnuts sold at €10 retail and reached €8 wholesale at Caab in Bologna, breaking the previous record of €6.80/kg."