Chalets de Chevan: at the entrance to protected wetlands

Invasive species of plants are plants that migrated outside their natural habitat and they can cause major disruption to ecosystems by interfering with local species. They are one of the major causes of worldwide biodiversity decline, particularly due to their high ability to spread and invade environments (proliferation via seeds or roots). Japanese knotweed, butterfly bush, mugwort, etc. are invasive species that do not thrive in wetlands. The main invasive species in the wetlands is the Giant Goldenrod. Asters-CEN74 has been carrying out advisory work, maintenance and a management plan for the commune of Praz-sur-Arly and the SMBVA (Syndicat mixte du bassin versant de l'Arly) since 2016.

Constant traffic puts pressure on the natural environment and has an irreversible impact on it. The vegetation on these footpaths does not grow back; the soil is extremely compact and there is very little plant life. The existence of these paths causes soil erosion: without vegetation, water runs off and stagnates. By walking off the trails or by cutting corners, new paths are created, amplifying these low-vegetation areas. Our “playground” serves as a habitat for many species of plants and animals, so let's all share this beautiful natural environment in a sensible way, so that everyone can enjoy it. "Everyone takes the same trail, everyone follows the same path, spread the word to your neighbour".

A wetland is an area in which water is present in significant quantities and for a prolonged period of time over a large part of the year, on the surface and/or in the first few inches of the soil. Waterlogging can be temporary: be careful, just because you can't see any water doesn't mean it's not a wetland! - Different types of wetland: marshes, ponds, peat bogs, pastures, forests, alluvial environments, reed beds, etc. - Wetlands can be identified by their vegetation and/or soil - Wetlands are threatened by the increase in agricultural activities, inappropriate water management, urban development and transport infrastructure.

Wetlands perform a number of functions, depending on their type and location:- they act as a sponge (storing, releasing and spreading water), limiting the intensity of flooding and run-off;- they filter and purify transiting water;- they act as a natural regulator: wetlands ensure good quality and quantity of water resources and limit natural and health risks;- they are a vital ecosystem for many species that depend on their existence. Wetlands are threatened environments: more than two-thirds of the surface area of wetlands in France disappeared in the 20th century, with 50% between 1960 and 1990.