“Ganzega” is saved in Trentino: and friends can also help with the grape harvest

The grape harvest is a crucial moment for a winery because it represents the tangible result of a year’s work. But the grape harvest is also a delicate process that isn’t always “controllable” by the winery’s will: just think of weather conditions, but also the challenge of finding labor, another area where difficulties often arise because finding people isn’t always a given. And this isn’t just a matter of availability, but can also, at times, be due to bureaucracy. An interesting new development, one that can alleviate the problem for small family-run farms while helping to preserve a historic tradition, comes from Trentino, where recognition for “Ganzega” and community-based labor has gone into effect. “Ganzega” is part of the region’s agricultural tradition and refers to spontaneous, occasional, and unpaid assistance provided by family members, friends, and neighbors for agricultural activities, such as the grape harvest and apple picking. This is traditionally accompanied by a social gathering as a “reward” and represents the only form of recognition for the help provided. While it was already possible nationwide, under existing regulations, to receive help from relatives and in-laws (up to the sixth degree) for agricultural activities in the form of short-term, unpaid services that do not constitute self-employment or employment, the new development in Trentino specifically concerns relationships of friendship, neighborliness, or acquaintance with the farmer. Emergency assistance, the other new measure, pertains to mutual cooperation among farmers in specific situations of need, such as illness or injury.
Giulia Zanotelli, Councilor for Agriculture of the Autonomous Province of Trento, highlighted the value of the new measures supporting industry operators in Trentino, which are the result of a collaborative effort with the Trento Chamber of Commerce. “As already communicated to the employers’ associations, in coordination with the Trento Chamber of Commerce, the recognition of occasional, unpaid assistance during the grape harvest and other harvests, as well as mutual assistance among farmers, is now fully operational. “This is an important gesture of support from the entire Trentino community, especially toward small producers who are facing the challenges of the harvest and grape-picking season and who can now fully benefit from the recognition of this tradition of solidarity and fellowship, which is, after all, already deeply rooted in our community”.
This is a new development that trade associations had also been advocating for, and it will allow vineyard owners to continue offering the experience of the grape harvest, which is also a social ritual, to people who wish to lend a hand, perhaps just for a single day or a little longer, without worrying about a possible fine. Afterward, everyone can enjoy the authentic flavors of the countryside together in good company.