Evaluation of the transfer of heavy metals to surface water: The case of revegetation of alpine ski resorts

Abstract

Vegetalisation aims to insert harmoniously derelict land into landscape and to reduce erosion with establishment of plant cover. Classically, method consists to hydroseed fertilizer and seed. Soil reconstitution, a preliminary condition for hydroseeding, develops in mountain resorts for few years. Typically, the application of sewage sludge compost on ski tracks has a application of about 55 tons per hectare. There are currently no soil restoration regulations in France. In this context, we examine transfer elements in the superficial hydrosphere. The results show that terracing as well as certain revegetation practices (autumn fertiliser spreading) can lead to significant transfers of heavy metals to surface waters, particularly during critical snow melt periods. This work can be perceived as an initial study than needs to be continued.