A fire that scorched large parts of Mosta's Wied Speranza was probably not started intentionally, Environment Minister Jose' Herrera said this afternoon.

Dr Herrera suggested farmers working nearby may have inadvertently caused the fire when they let flames spread as they burned some hay, though he also suggested the fire could have started on its own due to the summer heat.

The fire burnt across the valley over the weekend, leaving behind a black scar streaking across the Mosta countryside.

But although the fire damage appeared extensive, Dr Herrera said that an initial analysis suggested it was repairable and that indigenous trees had only been minimally affected.

Experts called in to assess the fire damage believe that the area should be left alone and nature allowed to "take its course."

Dr Herrera urged people to take extra care during the hot summer months to ensure fire safety and called on the public to immediately report any small fires to the Civil Protection Department. 

The minister and Environment and Resources Authority acting CEO Louise Spiteri visited the fire site this afternoon.