La Drè Yo: ski touring in Praz-sur-Arly

3 points of interest

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  Geology

  Amphibians in winter

  Here are 5 factors that can trigger avalanches:- A slope of 30° or more- A place where avalanches have already occurred- A recent rise in temperature- An increase in the weight of the snow cover- A visible weak snow layer. When several of these factors are combined, the risk increases. Consult the Avalanche Risk Assessment (BRA) sheet for your area before each outing and ask a professional for advice before setting off.

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  Flora

  Peat bog vegetation in winter

  Peat bogs are unique and sensitive wetlands brimming with unique flora and fauna. In winter, sphagnum mosses (Sphagnum sp.), a type of moss found in peat bogs, absorb water (like sponges), which they release in summer when the environment dries out. The butterwort, Pinguicula vulgaris, is a carnivorous plant typical of peat bogs, which in winter takes the form of a small bud measuring around 1cm. This compact shape helps it to survive the sub-zero temperatures. Praz-sur-Arly is the first municipality in Haute-Savoie to voluntarily implement a Wetlands Management Plan. The aim of this plan is to improve farming practices, restore wetlands (such as peat bogs) and raise awareness of these special places that act as “kidneys” of our planet.

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  Fauna

  The funnel principle

  The woodier the area in which we are riding (forest edge), the greater the risk of encountering wild animals. We need to be conservative with walking space, follow the right itineraries and not create new footpaths. If you come across an animal, stop and let it walk away peacefully. Avoid the mountain ridges above the tree line so as not to disturb the rock ptarmigan. Let us share this living and breathing territory without making a fuss. Do not forget, we are guests here.