Dérives écologiques et gestion du milieu fluvial rhodannien / Ecological evolution and management of the natural environment of the Rhône valley

Abstract

Three main periods described the history of fluvial ecosystems of the Rhône valley during the last centuries. Direct and indirect human impacts increased during this evolution. A reduction in the morphological diversity of the regulated hydrosystem has caused a reduction in biological diversity. It is more difficult to establish a global diagnosis for the terrestrial environments than for the aquatic environments. However, several tendencies can be identified. The future of natural areas of the Lower Rhône is quite uncertain despite the increasing place of the nature in the socio- economical f unctionning of the valley.