INNOVANDO 2025: the future of rice starts in Robbi
June 30, 2026A celebration of rice, sustainability and community
an event to remember!
On 24 May, during the Lomellina Days weekend, we experienced a truly memorable day. Robbio was selected as the 2026 destination for the Fondazione FS historic steam train departing from Milan Central Station, taking visitors on a journey to discover the unique heritage and excellence of our region.
As always, the beautifully restored vintage train offered passengers a unique experience combining history, culture, agricultural landscapes and local traditions. It arrived at Robbio railway station at around 11:00 a.m., where visitors were warmly welcomed by the event organisers.
The GAL Risorsa Lomellina coordinated five themed tours designed to showcase the area, and we at Stefania Buffa Riso were delighted to organise and host Tour 1. Our goal was to introduce participants to the world of rice cultivation, our family farms, and the authentic character of the Lomellina region.
The historic train was completely sold out, carrying around 290 visitors, while our tour reached full capacity within just a few days, welcoming approximately 60 participants. Originally designed for a smaller group, the overwhelming interest encouraged us to open the experience to additional visitors who had not travelled on the steam train but still wished to join us.
Throughout the day, many other guests also visited our farm to take part in lunch and the afternoon activities. In total, we welcomed around 90 people, turning the event into a wonderful opportunity for meeting, sharing experiences and celebrating our local heritage together.
Discovering the Heart of the Rice Fields
After welcoming our guests at Robbio station, we set off on a leisurely three-kilometre walk through the surrounding countryside and our rice farms. We wanted participants to experience the authentic landscape of Lomellina while learning about the rice fields, the importance of water, and the deep connection between this land and rice cultivation.
Along the route, we shared the history of Robbio and explained how water has shaped both the landscape and the development of rice farming over the centuries. Today's scenery is the result of generations of agricultural expertise, inherited knowledge and a carefully maintained balance between people, nature and cultivation.
An important part of the day focused on the history of rice in Italy. Thanks to the insights of our agronomist, Dr Stefania Buffa, participants discovered how rice first arrived in Italy and how it transformed the landscape, culture and economy of Lomellina.
We also explained the work we carry out every day on our farms, showing how the rice we grow is the very same product that reaches the tables of families across Italy.
Farming Sustainably for the Future
Sustainability was one of the key themes of the tour.
We introduced visitors to several of the agricultural practices we use to grow rice responsibly. Among these is the use of green manure cover crops, an important technique that naturally improves soil fertility without relying solely on external inputs.
We also showed the small ecological channels created within our rice fields, designed to provide habitats for frogs and help preserve aquatic biodiversity.
Another practice we discussed was winter flooding, where rice fields remain flooded during the colder months. Over time, this approach has encouraged many bird species to return permanently to the area. Some birds that once appeared only during seasonal migrations, such as the heron, have now become year-round residents.
Participants also learned about the strategic decisions involved in choosing which rice varieties to cultivate. Modern farming requires balancing economic, agronomic and environmental considerations to ensure both quality and sustainability.
Among the varieties presented was Ronaldo, a highly appreciated rice used extensively in ready-made risottos while also being ideal for traditional homemade risotto or as an accompaniment to many dishes.
Good Food and a Good Cause
At the end of our countryside walk, we arrived back at our farm, where we were welcomed by the volunteers of Robbio 4.0, a local association dedicated to organising community initiatives and charitable events.
The day also had an important fundraising purpose. Donations collected during the event will support a June initiative allowing young people with disabilities to enjoy a special go-kart driving experience.
Lunch brought everyone together around a delicious asparagus risotto, lovingly prepared by the association's volunteers. It was a warm and convivial moment where guests enjoyed a seasonal local dish while continuing to celebrate the spirit of the day.
Learning to Recognise Quality Rice
At 2:30 p.m., participants attended a highly anticipated masterclass dedicated to understanding white rice, led by Dr Massimo Biloni from Acqua Verde Riso.
The session offered practical guidance on how to evaluate a packet of rice, recognise quality characteristics, identify potential defects and make more informed purchasing decisions as consumers.
The masterclass attracted great interest and quickly became one of the highlights of the entire event.
Visitors also had the opportunity to purchase rice and ready-made risottos from Conti Riso, taking home a delicious reminder of their experience in Lomellina and the products of our region.
Adding even more character to the day were three beautifully preserved vintage tractors, offering a fascinating glimpse into the history of local agriculture and the evolution of farming through the decades.
A Day to Remember
The event concluded at around 4:30 p.m., when participants returned to Robbio station to board the historic steam train back to Milan.
It was an inspiring, emotional and rewarding day that allowed us to share our passion for rice, our daily work and our love for the Lomellina region with so many wonderful visitors.
Our sincere thanks go to Rosella Ridone, Riccardo Pozzati, Massimo Biloni, Agrieventi and Robbio 4.0 for their commitment, enthusiasm and invaluable support in planning and delivering this event.
Thanks to everyone's contribution, we were able to create a day full of meaningful experiences, valuable knowledge and memorable moments, while celebrating the traditions, rice culture and outstanding agricultural heritage of Lomellina.
