by InTrieste
As Italy gears up for the summer tourist season, new environmental data from the region of Friuli Venezia Giulia (FVG) indicate that its lakes, rivers, and coastal waters are in excellent health.
Preliminary tests conducted in April by ARPA FVG, the regional environmental protection agency, show high water quality across 65 sampling points, including popular destinations such as Grado, Lake Cavazzo, and Lake Sauris, as well as key river systems like the Natisone, Tagliamento, and the Arzino and Meduna streams. The waters in Duino, a coastal village near Trieste, were also upgraded from a previous “sufficient” rating to “good.”
The analysis forms part of a pre-monitoring phase ahead of the official summer bathing season. Beginning in May, the agency will conduct monthly checks through June, July, and August, concluding on September 1. The first round of results will be made available to the public on ARPA FVG’s website starting Tuesday.
The monitoring program focuses on microbiological indicators such as Escherichia coli and intestinal enterococci, both of which are crucial for evaluating water safety. In addition, a separate surveillance effort is in place to track the presence of algae — a growing concern amid rising global temperatures.
While the mouths of rivers remain the most vulnerable areas due to runoff and other environmental factors, officials say long-term data shows a positive trend. The agency reports that overall water quality in the region has remained consistently high over the past four years.
With its mix of alpine lakes and Adriatic coastline, Friuli Venezia Giulia has become an increasingly attractive destination for domestic and international visitors seeking clean and natural swimming spots. The latest findings are likely to reinforce the region’s appeal as summer approaches.
