Altitude Magazine N° 14.

91 \ ALTITUDE Farming is a job between man and the land. With all the new concerns about climate change, how do you position yourself? Because we work the land, we are naturally concerned about energy issues. We are going to install photovoltaic installations on the roof of our farm, as well as thermal production systems. We also plan to install a 15,000-litre boiler for hot water this summer, to increase our use of thermal energy in making and heating water. At the same time, we plan to increase our photovoltaic panel capacity. We already use the hot water from the pellets and the heat from our house to heat the cheese and power our boiler. We have already been using a pellet boiler for more than 20 years to heat all the water for the farm and the house. This ecological approach is in line with our values and our vision of the farm. The ecological aspect is an important concern for us, even if we don’t seek to adopt an extreme approach. We care about farming in an environmentally-friendly way. Whether it’s my husband, our children or the other people working on the farm, we are all committed to taking care of the land, tending it with pleasure and respecting the well-being of the animals and the fields. This responsible approach to the environment and natural resources is an integral part of our identity. While we don’t take this approach to extremes, we are sincerely committed to sustainable, respectful farming. In return, we also ask people to respect our meadows. Stray debris can be ingested by our livestock and some of these incidents have already led to the death of our animals. You’re only five minutes from the station. What does this proximity mean for you? In Switzerland, agriculture is an essential part of the country’s identity. Visitors, especially tourists, want to see the cows and the mountains. What’s particularly interesting about Crans-Montana is that, despite its international, urban and tourist feel, our farm is close by and offers the experience of seeing a real farm. When we first installed the vending machine, we had some doubts about its success, as we felt a bit isolated. However, we’re really close to Crans-Montana, which makes this farming experience accessible to visitors. Visitors can easily escape the hustle and bustle of the resort to come to us and enjoy an authentic farm experience. It’s a great advantage to have this proximity, as it allows visitors to discover different facets of the region, whether they’re relaxing on the beach or enjoying a cocktail by the lake. We’re lucky to be so close to the resort and still offer a unique rural experience. This contributes to the overall appeal of the region and adds an authentic dimension to the tourist experience. Ferme des Trontières embodies the spirit of a family devoted to farming and cheese production. The Berclaz story is one of passion passed down from generation to generation, of tradition lovingly preserved and of a constant quest for quality. By sampling their authentic products, visitors have the opportunity to discover the soul of the Valais region. We invite you to sample their cheeses, both in the various restaurants and shops in the resort, and at home over a delicious raclette.

RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjIzNzg=