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.
