Analisi storica della razza bovina Pontremolese

This study concerns the historical analysis of Pontremolese bovine breed, originally located in the actual provinces of La Spezia and Massa Carrara. From the beginning of the last century, a gradual numeric decrease of this breed happened in consequence of two different factors: on one hand the decline of demand of animals with work purpose, and on the other he introduction of the more productive Bruna Alpina breed. These factors could be considered responsible for the lack of the original peculiar ethnic characters of Pontremolese. Since 1985 Pontremolese has been recorded in the book of Local Breeds with a Restricted Diffusion and introduced in the Regional Repertory (L.R. 50/97) for the preservation of local genetic resources, with the aim of avoiding its future disappearing. In the same year (1985) Pontremolese was also included in the list of “Reliquia” breeds. Our report numbered 26 Pontremolese subjects in two farms placed near Lucca (Tuscany); in addition 4 animals were found near L’Aquila (Abruzzo) involved in a project of preservation of animal diversity. In conclusion, today it’s essential to organize appropriate action programs focused on safeguarding this breed. Besides it was also important to optimise actions and influences of the brand “Garfagnana and Valle del Serchio Beef Meat” who started in 1999 and, really, has not yet successfully promoted Pontremolese meat products.