GEOSHOOTING – Man and the nature

GEOSHOOTING – Man and the nature
The geolocalisation challenge: From Veysonnaz to Mayens-de-Sion see if you can find these features shown below. Take a picture
on your camera or phone, they don`t have to be in order. Use the map to help you on www.veysonnaz.ch/carte.php !
The path for water and man
Animal territory
A metal canal had to be built to allow a good flow
of water. The ground is very absorbent despite the
lower layer of silt. (a deposit of earth which is
naturally waterproof).
Rocks, slopes, trees and branches. Comfortable
only for animals! The woodcutters maintain the
forest every year and contribute to its rejuvenation
with their woodcutting.
Sculpture
Rugged Art
Another side of the woodcutters’ work.
Games of rocks, roots and plants.
Towards a house
Towards other inhabitants
Les Mayens-de-Sion contains many magnificent
th
chalets dating back to the 19 century when they
were used as holiday homes for the aristocracy of
Sion. Now tourists are drawn more towards the
stations of Veysonnaz, Nendaz and Thyon.
A den for foxes or a shelter for rodents? Every pile
of rocks holds a secret. Perhaps a little animal
might appear…
GEOSHOOTING – Man and the nature
A sculpted face
The hidden face
The woodcutters are true artists.
Happy or sad? Do you see the face on this cut
trunk?
The work of the craftsman
The hand of a giant
Yearly, friends of the bisse carry out maintenance
work before water is released into the bisse. In
the past the mills were equipped with a hammer
producing a regular rhythm. Silence alerted the
bisse keeper to a problem with the water flow e.g.
blockage due to branches.
The lower branches often intrude on your path.
This tree will bear the mark of human control for
a long time! The cutting of the trees is carried out
by woodcutters from “Cône de Thyon” every year.
Light games
Shadow games
During the golden era of Mayens-de-Sion, the
bisse was partly lit for night walks. Now the lights
don’t work but add a touch of romance.
“Mélèzes” and “épiceas” trees are the natural
masters of our forests and have an important role
in protecting the mountain. More importantly,
avalanche protection from snow and rock and
prevention from erosion.