At Nakiska, we recognize that maintaining the beauty and stability of our natural environment is as important as providing an exceptional recreational experience. One unique practice we implement on our slopes is mulching.
But what exactly is mulching and why is it such an important practice?
What is Mulching?
Mulching involves covering the soil with organic or inorganic materials to create a protective layer. Organic mulches include natural materials such as wood chips, leaves, straw and compost, while inorganic mulches can be made from stones or synthetic materials. In most cases, organic mulches are favoured for their environmental benefits as they break down and contribute nutrients to the soil over time.
The Importance of Mulching
At Nakiska, we utilize organic mulch from tree felling, which is selective tree removal as required for creating gladed terrain, trail widening, or removing dead or diseased trees. By mulching felled trees on-site, it eliminates trucking and transport of the logs, and re-introducing mulch to the logged area offers many benefits:
- Soil Health Enhancement: Organic mulch enriches the soil as it decomposes, releasing vital nutrients that promote plant growth. This enriches the ecosystem and creates a healthier environment for the diverse foliage that inhabits the ski area.
- Erosion Control: Ski slopes can be susceptible to erosion, especially during heavy rains or rapid snowmelt. By applying a layer of mulch, it creates a barrier that helps stabilize the soil and reduces runoff. The roots of removed trees and vegetation are left untouched in the ground, further stabilizing the terrain and preventing erosion, especially on steeper sections of mulched areas. This is particularly crucial for maintaining the integrity of our ski slopes and surrounding ecosystems.
- Wildlife Protection: We time our tree removal appropriately to ensure we aren’t disturbing nesting sites of migratory birds, taking care to remove trees that aren’t being for nesting.
- Moisture Retention: In our efforts to manage water resources sustainably, mulching helps retain moisture in the soil. This is particularly important during the dry summer months when the risk of forest fires increases. Mulching helps reduce flammable materials and slows the spread of flames, ensuring that our slopes remain healthy and vibrant throughout the year.
- Carbon Dioxide Reduction: Before the practice of mulching was introduced, felled trees would be burned onsite or trucked off the mountain. Mulching on-site eliminates tree and timber burning, avoiding the release of carbon into the atmosphere. This practice helps maintain a lower carbon footprint and contributes to environmental sustainability.
Mulching Practices at Nakiska
Our approach to mulching is guided by a commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. Here are some of the practices we implement:
- Selective Tree Felling: We carefully plan tree removal to minimize ecological disruption. This ensures that only necessary trees are removed and we prioritize the health of the surrounding ecosystem.
- Natural Mulch Application: After tree felling, we leave behind a natural layer of mulch to protect the soil. This mulch serves multiple purposes from enhancing soil quality to preventing erosion and promoting healthy regrowth.
- Ecosystem Monitoring: We continually monitor the effects of our mulching practices on the surrounding environment. This allows us to adapt our methods as needed, ensuring that we are effectively supporting the local ecosystem, including not disturbing any nesting sites or other wildlife considerations.
By continuing to refine our sustainable practices, our mulching practices are just one way we can develop our slopes while supporting the diverse wildlife and ecosystems in our vicinity.
