This page reports the development of project ALPTER ’point of view’ on different topics regarding terraced landscapes. The output of this work will eventually result in the project proposal for a protocol of study on terraced areas.

Mapping

This topic aims at developing the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in mapping of terraced area. The first points the partners have agreed on is:

 Use of aerial orto-photographs at scale 1:10000 as effective base for mapping

 Necessity of surveys on the field for higher detail

The next point to be developed regards the addtional data (’fields’) linked to each terraced sub-area, that are needed to support activities of monitoring and analysis. A list of such data is in course of development by the project, to produce a base GIS structure for terraced areas. (See forum thread)

Natural risk

A simplified method for definition of a map of risk in terraced areas has been defined. The method make use of GIS tecniques and follows this steps:

 Census and mapping of terracements

 Elaboration of DEM model (3D) for water flow simulation

 Possibility of insertion of additional data

 Use of a standard model for comparison of previous results and mapping of risk

This method, although simplified, has the advantage of being easily appliable, using GIS tools, to many cases and areas. It will be fully developed with details like omptimized scale, parameters, etc. in the next months.
(See forum thread)

Projects of recovery

A first list of multi-sector activities linked to the restoration of abandoned terraced areas have been produced, organized in three steps:
 Preliminary works for recovery
 Concrete restoration activities
 Management and maintenance of terraced areas

The detailed list result in a model that will be tested through the projects pilot works and will eventually form a check-list, useful as a tool for any project of recovery in terraced areas. (See forum thread)

Agricultural land use

The first point that has emerged is the problem of mechanization of agriculture in terraced areas, as a major issues for maintenance of terracements :

 Mechanization of agricultural production can be an important instrument for recovery of abandoned areas to an active use, while used respectfully within the landscape

Aim of the project if to produce a study on requirements, advantages and modality of the use of machines on terracements, with the aim of offering a tool to producers for choosing the most affective and sustainable form of production. (See forum thread)

Tourism promotion

The project is examining the role of quality tourism in terraced areas within the general tourism present framework:

 Identification of demand for quality tourism in european countries

 Definition of attractinveness and services offered by terraced areas

 In particular, identification of the role of the terraced landscapes in the ’appeal’ of tourism areas

After developement of these base points, methods for tourism promotion in terraced areas will be object of the project. (See forum thread)