Agriculture and Industry

Population is generally sparse in the mountains, where cattle raising and dairying are chief occupations. Cultivation of crops is limited largely to valleys, foothills, and mild southern slopes, where wine grapes, fruits, grains, and hay are grown. The making of cheese and handicraft articles is traditional.

Rapidly flowing Alpine streams have been harnessed to provide hydroelectric power used for industrial purposes in Alpine valleys. The French Alps are a center of aluminum refining. Other industrial activities include the production of heavy machinery, small precision items, and chemicals. In many areas the tourist business provides the single largest source of income.