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Most of the surrounding hills hold terraced vineyards supported by “muri a secco” — drystone (mortarless) walls. Traditionally, land is subdivided amongst all family members from generation to generation. Some of these plots have become so small that they’re no longer profitable, meaning they’re no longer maintained. Lack of vineyard maintenance is one reason why flash floods and landslides have become so problematic lately. Well-kept rock walls and the roots of healthy vines help prevent runoff and soil erosion.

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