The Valais

The main Rhone Valley runs through the centre of the region, with industry and agriculture mainly at lowers elevations
(A). The impacts of increased temperature and drought on ecosystem services are predicted to be most pronounced in
the main valley. Side valleys commonly have steep slopes and are dominated by forests that often provide protection
from rock fall and avalanches (e.g. the Saas-Valley, B). Traditionally, grazing and high-elevation agriculture have been
practiced at higher elevations. However, as the intensity of these activities has decreased over the past century, parts
of these high-elevation areas are being reclaimed by forest (C).