COMPARISON OF MIXTURES FOR REVEGETATION OF SKI SLOPES IN NORTH ITALY.

Revegetation of ski slopes is important for technical and environmental reasons. Commercial mixtures composed of forage species are generally used, even if some authors support the use of native or adapted species to enhance the success of restoration. The work reports data obtained from an experimental trial in a ski slope located on a calcareous scree in North Italy (Sappada, eastern Alps) in which three mixtures, differing in seed cost and composition, were tested. A variable amount of two unconventional (introduced) species (Anthyllis vulneraria and Plantago lanceolata) was added to each mixture, resulting in different seeding rates. Data were collected to evaluate the behaviour of tested mixtures in establishing and maintaining artificial canopies. Results show differences between the mixtures, while no significant effect was found between the seeding rates. Addition of unconventional species to the original mixtures seems to affect the botanical composition but not the total ground cover. Thus, the use of these unconventional species should be well evaluated in advance because of the high cost of their seeds.