The top research valley in South Tyrol

In a small area from 1,000 to 3,700 metres above sea level, the Matsch Valley features all the altitude levels typical of a mountainous region and boasts a variety of vegetation levels, from orchards to glaciers. This is one of the reasons why the valley has, since 2014, been part of a worldwide research network which studies the long-term effects of climate change and land use. The scientists at the European Academy of Bolzano (EURAC) have set up 17 climate stations in the valley which continuously monitor temperature, rainfall and wind and explore the stimulating, foresighted question of how climatic conditions, their changes and human use of land affect biodiversity.