Fréquentation des sites naturels littoraux , Vers une meilleure connaissance du public : l'exemple de deux sites dunaires à l'Est du Dunkerque

Abstract

Toward a better knowledge of the public of natural coastal sites : the example of two coastal dunes east of Dunkirk (France) A survey was carried out on two coastal dunes managed by the Conseil Général du Nord (Local Authority) in order to determine what types of visitors frequent these sites and what are their expectations. The results of this survey, realised during a period of one year, are compared with previous work conducted on other coastal sites of the Nord-Pas-de-Calais. The study sites, Dune Marchand and Dune Fossile de Ghyvelde, are both located east of Dunkirk, in a densely urbanised environment These sites show several differences in terms of morphology and management methods. The Dune Marchand is a coastal dune system on the shore of the North Sea while the Dune Fossile de Ghyvelde is a relict landform located several kilometres inland and stabilised by a dense vegetation cover. Although both sites are the propriety of the Conservatoire de l'Espace Littoral et des Rivages Lacustres and are managed by the Conseil Général du Nord, the public reception policy and the fréquentation are different The Dune Marchand is a natural reserve, enclosed between two sea resorts much frequented during summer, and has been open to the public for several decades. The Dune de Ghyvelde, however, is a protected site (site inscrit ; with fragile vegetation cover and was partially open to the public since July 1999 only. This case study deals with the issue of nature leisure in protected natural sites in heavily urbanised areas. It highlights the problem of protecting the ecological qualities of natural sites while permitting admittance to the public, and the important issue of education to the environment.