Simulations to protect the Valais

Scientists model sediment deposits carried by the Naviscence River in the Swiss Valais canton. They are simulating possible scenarios for the future of the Zinal ski area, which could be threatened by the river. These research results could be applied elsewhere in the Valais. How long will it take until Switzerland's picturesque Anniviers Valley is filled in with silt and gravel? More quickly than one might think, if global warming indeed leads to a predicted increase in sediment deposits during the course of the coming century. Of course, a lot of water will flow down the mountain valleys before they'll be buried in sediment. For some villages, the threat of rocks and torrential flooding is always a serious problem, even on the short term. Mountain streams transport all kinds and sizes of sediment loads.