They're the ideal alternative to the more popular (and crowded) beaches on the coast. The natural pools of Ussassai have become a regular sight, especially for hikers. But starting today, a revolution begins: access is banned. In the name of environmental protection and safety, the mayor of Ussassai, Chicco Usai, has banned swimming and aqua trekking in the river stretches, as well as in the natural pools of the Rio Sa Taula, between the Piscina de S'Arcada up to the junction with the Rio San Gerolamo, the Rio Isara and Rio San Gerolamo, and the Caddargiu de Sini pool. Anyone violating the ban risks a fine of up to €500.
Reckless assault
In this scorching summer, waterways are strained and are often visited by hikers and swimmers who, as an alternative to the beach, enjoy dipping into the cool waters of mountain streams in search of a bit of refreshment. The natural pools of Ussassai are a constant destination for local tourists, both from Italy and abroad. "But access, especially in recent days, has been reckless: we can no longer risk it," the mayor stated. The purpose of the ordinance approved yesterday, which prohibits swimming and aqua trekking or any type of activity involving group hiking in the waterways, is to preserve the environmental heritage. "Those sites have significant ecological value. They are small and fragile spaces, and we have a duty to protect them. Until now, we have turned a blind eye, but in light of the numbers of people in recent days," the mayor observed, "we can no longer tolerate certain behaviors. Common sense would have been needed."
Social phenomenon
In recent years, those who live in the hinterland have seen traffic jams building up around rivers and their cool pools, increasingly under siege. What were once the exclusive preserve of residents who knew the path to the stream are now popular and advertised spots, driven unchecked by social media likes. "We're not talking about wide beaches, but small natural sites. A few dozen square meters in which forty people gather: where's the safety?" the mayor asks and demands. The answer, he says inevitable, is an ordinance that leaves little room for interpretation: "There will be zero tolerance for anyone who doesn't respect it." Such an act could spark protests, both within the community and among hikers. "I'm ready to take responsibility for the measure. Besides, those who come to our area to visit the natural pools often don't even have a coffee. The economic return is so limited that it's not worth taking all those risks."
Roberto Secci