Rockglaciers of the Engadine are one of 100 IUGS Geological Heritage Sites
100 geological sites from around the world are recognized as a reference for their impact in understanding the Earth and its history. One of these are the Engadine rockglaciers. The Department of Geography of the University of Zurich has a long tradition of research there.
The Engadine is one of the rockglacier hotspots in the European Alps. This is due to continental climate conditions, high elevation and high weathering rates. Engadine rockglaciers have been investigated for nearly one century. The findings improved knowledge on high-mountain permafrost, in particular on permafrost distribution, rockglacier internal structure and kinematics, and sediment transfer.
The Department of Geography (University of Zurich) has a long tradition of research in this area and is part of Permafrost Monitoring Network Switzerland PERMOS. “The Engadine rockglaciers are our outdoor labs for research in geomorphology”, says Isabelle Gärtner-Roer. “We are therefore very pleased that this is now being recognized!”. She presented the rockglaciers of the Engadine at an event celebrating the 60th anniversary on October 27 at Zumaia, Basque Coast UNESCO Global Geopark.
IUGS Geological Heritage Sites: Rockglaciers of the Engadine
News UZH : Rockglaciers of the Engadine