Alpine Farming

Val Gardena can build on a traditional alpine natural and cultural landscape, which has been created over the centuries by grazing the high alpine areas. It is therefore not surprising that the Dolomites belong to the UNESCO World Natural Heritage, of which we are very proud. So we thank our farmers, who bring their sheep, cattle, goats and horses up on the mountains in summer. The latter make sure that the alpine high landscape remains clean and free of undergrowth and weeds and presents itself in full flower and herb splendour. In addition, grazing our high alpine pastures protects them from falling rocks, mudslides and avalanches.
In the valley, too, the farmers make sure that the meadows are mown in order to bring in the best winter fodder for their animals on one hand and to ensure a clean village appearance on the other.

Hiking and mountain biking tours in the mountains often involve encounters with grazing animals such as cows, horses, sheep, etc. These animals are generally peaceful, but can react instinctively if they see their young in danger, for example. In order to prepare hikers and nature lovers for such situations and to promote respectful coexistence between humans and animals, the Autonomous Province of Bolzano, in collaboration with the South Tyrolean Farmers' Association and various tourism partners, has produced an extremely useful information leaflet. It offers practical tips and rules of behaviour to help avoid conflicts and ensure the safety of both people and animals.

For some years now, the Alpine region has again been one of the wolf's transit areas. In order to prevent the wolf from posing any danger to the herds, the Val Gardena alpine pasture and pasture owners are forced to take protective measures in the form of fencing.

• Please understand this and keep your distance from the fences, as they are charged with electricity.
• Please always carefully close the gate when entering and leaving, stay on the marked hiking trails and keep your dog on a leash.
• Camping with tents is prohibited in nature reserves.

We thank you for your understanding and assistance.