Ecological Restoration of Ski-Runs

The basic principles for long-term ecological restoration of ski-runs are presented.

Several thousands of hectares every year require restoration in the sub-alpine and alpine vegetation belt of the European Alps. The majority of these areas are used as ski-runs during winter and for agriculture in summer.

Control of erosion and its after effects, like increased surface drainage and dislocation of soil, is one of the most essential tasks when restoring ski-runs at high elevations. Ecological restoration of such areas requires the combination of high quality application techniques and site-specific seed or plant material containing species adapted to the given site conditions. Average slope inclinations of 30% to 45% in the vicinity of skiruns require the additional use of mulch covers to avoid increased surface drainage and noticeable soil losses during the first two vegetation periods. In the long-term, sufficient protection against erosion can only be guaranteed if stable, enduring and ecologically adapted sub-alpine and alpine plant species become established.

Keywords: Erosion control, high-altitude restoration, re-vegetation, seed mixture, site-specific, ski runs.