Laura Turri, the "queen" of extra virgin olive oil on Garda lake

A keyword for the future of farming? Environmental and economical sustainability at both local and global levels, ensuring the production of healthy, top-quality food

by L. C.

Born in Verona in 1959, after abandoning her University studies in Literature, she started to work in the family business, the Turri oil mill in Cavaion Veronese, on the shores of Lake Garda, where she is in charge of trading and marketing the oil produced, as well as dealing with oil certification issues. Former president of the Consorzio Tutela Olio Garda Dop, the consortium for the protection of Lake Garda olive oils, she currently holds the position of vice-president.

Why did you decide to work in the field of agriculture?
It wasn’t an easy choice. I would have liked to pursue literary studies but family traditions prevailed.

Do you feel more a farmer or an entrepreneur?
I cannot really see much difference between these roles. A good entrepreneur must have a clear vision of all that occurs and is needed in the field and likewise, a good farmer must have adequate business skills. Both roles require passion, patience and an open mind to innovation.

A definition of farming.
Agriculture in my opinion is the activity most open to scientific and technological innovation: by exploiting natural resources – the land, water, light, plants and animals – we can produce foodstuff whilst preserving both the environment and the beauty of the countryside.

An adjective defining the world of farming.
Two adjectives describe the current situation in Italy: backward and quarrelsome.

A keyword for the future of farming.
Environmental and economical sustainability at both local and global levels, ensuring the production of healthy, top-quality food.

A role model.
The late Giordana Carpi, unforgettable mayor of Trequanda (Siena), who died in 1997.

Someone you would… send to hell.
All those who exploit their position of power for personal gain and interests.

A book you’d advise on the rural world.
The books written by Manlio Rossi Doria and, as regards the local rural history, a book written by my uncle Eugenio Turri, Villa veneta, l’agonia di una civiltà (The Veneto Villa, and the agony of a civilization).

Your favorite book.
Adrian’s memories by Margherite Yourcenar

Your favorite song or composition.
La buona novella by Fabrizio De Andrè and Horizons, Genesis

Your most unforgettable movie.
Trois couleurs: Bleu, by Krzysztof Kieślowsk

What would you like to find after passing away?
I would like to meet my departed friends and family members, and continue those conversations that fate interrupted.