Crans-Montana – a future resource

With climate change, ski resorts in the Alps must increasingly rely on technical snow, whether for winter tourism or hosting sporting competitions. Sustainable water management has therefore become a central issue for both tourism and elite sport, and lies at the heart of a long-established regional strategy in Crans-Montana. For the Haut-Plateau area, it is not merely a challenge but a genuine driver of development, founded on scientific knowledge, innovation and local cooperation. It's good news all round. 

Mountain lakes – an invaluable asset

Crans-Montana is fortunate to benefit from the Tseuzier dam, as well as lakes and ponds that have been used as reservoirs for decades. Backed up by retention basins, their combined capacity enables the annual collection of melt-water, which represents a significant share of the 140 million m³ available on average in the region. According to data from the Swiss National Science Foundation's research project, MontanAqua, only 8% to 10% of this resource is actually consumed. The rest returns to the soil, rivers and groundwater.

The study revealed a number of favourable aspects in the region. However, 2011 – one of the driest years on record – generated only 76% of the expected water supply. This shows that variations must be anticipated. Despite these fluctuations, the destination's water requirements remain modest with drinking water representing about 8 million m³ per year, agricultural irrigation 3 to 5 million m³ and artificial snow 300,000 to 450,000 m³. This means the latter consumes less than 0.5% of the total resources available. These figures allow Crans-Montana to face the future with confidence, while strengthening its resilience to climate change.

Technology serving energy

In recent years, technical snow has been a particular focus of development and research. Snow production is, of course, one of the most visible pillars of this modern management. Today's fully automated systems continuously analyse temperature, humidity and wind to determine the optimal time to produce 'white gold'. GPS tools onboard the snow groomers measure the thickness of the snow cover, to prevent excesses and duplications. The latest-generation snow cannons are especially efficient, requiring 30% to 40% less water than older models while consuming less energy.

No risk of winter shortages

Local and regional governance also plays a key role in water management in the Haut-Plateau region. Municipalities, ski lift companies, farmers, tourism stakeholders and now the World Ski Championships Organising Committee must coordinate their decisions to ensure resources are shared evenly. MontanAqua experts have shown that this collaboration is a genuine lever for sustainability. Fragmented management can lead to tensions and management errors, whereas a collective approach enhances efficiency and transparency.

On the positive side, the resort is committed to reducing water use during major events through an efficient sanitary infrastructure, waste-reducing equipment and more detailed usage planning. This approach is part of a global vision where every cubic metre counts in every season, even the most sensitive (such as late summer). With droughts set to multiply by 2050, this is becoming more of a necessity. "It's true that with its efficient and coordinated water management among stakeholders, the region has absolutely no need to worry about running out of water in winter", explains Mariano Bonriposi, who studied local water use for his thesis. "It is during the dry periods between April and October that the situation can be far more critical. "

Crans-Montana may enjoy a very sunny Alpine climate, but it's also one of the driest regions in the Alps. In summer, we are increasingly experiencing long periods without rain, making droughts frequent and increasing the pressure on water resources.

Anticipation – a key factor

Beyond environmental, moral and legal obligations, sustainable water management offers a competitive advantage. Thanks to its reservoirs, measuring systems and internal organisation, Crans-Montana can guarantee stable skiing conditions even during irregular winters. Again, this is a necessity, especially because of the resort's exposure to the south and the high temperatures that sometimes prevail even deep into the traditionally colder months. Then there's the Plaine Morte Glacier, which is losing several metres of depth each year and increasingly directing its water flow towards the canton of Bern. The glacier is expected to disappear before the end of the century, but long before that, the area will have to confront this new reality. Faced with this real challenge, the region has chosen to work as a team and anticipate rather than endure the tough times.

As the 2027 World Ski Championships approach, Crans-Montana is testament to the fact that a resort can combine sporting excellence, technical innovation and respect for the natural environment. Water is much more than simply a commodity here, it is a resource that is often understood, planned and protected. The resort's model is already inspiring other Alpine destinations and serves as a reminder that with precision, cooperation and long-term vision, we can build a sustainable future.