MOVING in the Swiss Alps

Agriculture has a long tradition in the Grison Alps and plays a major role in forming the typical landscape. Within MOVING, we elaborated the mountain grain value chain and its importance to diversify the region’s traditional animal agriculture with sustainable plant products. The cooperative Gran Alpin plays an important role by managing the mountain grain production in the Grison Alps. It was formed in the 1980s and counts over 100 farmers as member today. The value chain focuses on the production and distribution of premium organic cereal products such as pasta or beer, which are popular with both private customers and retailers. Success factors have been the cooperative's drive, partnerships with local processors and retailers, as well as premium pricing through organic and regional branding. However, there are several obstacles that we have been able to identify achieving sustainable development of the region. Our research has shown that infrastructure in the farming and processing stage, availability of site-appropriate seeds, the current focus of agricultural policy towards livestock production, and the lack of skilled labour in the region are the main factors holding back grain production on farms. Therefore, we recommend investing in education, training, and advisory services as well as in infrastructure improvement and financial support for innovative mountain-specific practices.