Natura 2000
An asset as much as a challenge!
Among the countless European classifications, this is one of which we can be proud and which deserves our attention.
Often perceived as a regulatory constraint, the classification of a site in a Natura 2000 zone contributes to protecting the natural heritage by reconciling the various human activities that take place there. From 2018, an animation post, dedicated to this mission, is provided by the Community of Communes of the La Bruche valley.
What is a “Natura 2000” zone?
The network's approach favors the collective search for balanced and sustainable management of spaces which takes into account economic and social concerns. Natura 2000 sites aim to better take into account biodiversity issues in human activities. These sites are designated to protect a certain number of habitats and species representative of European biodiversity.
Alsace has 32 Natura 2000 sites, including 3 located in the Bruche valley.
Where are these “Natura 2000” zones found in the Bruche valley?
La Special Protection Zone– the ridges of Donon-Schneeberg: (Birds Directive) extends over 6 ha while the ZSC – Special Area of Conservation –the Donon, Schneeberg and Grossmann massifs (Habitats Directive Fauna Flora) covers 3 ha.
The SPA is characterized exclusively by mid-mountain forest.
La Special Area of Conservation– from the Field of Fire (Habitats Directive Fauna Flora) extends over 169 ha, and concerns 3 municipalities. Over the majority of its surface area, this site benefits from regulatory protection thanks to the National Biological Reserves (that of Champ du Feu and that of Hochfeld) managed by the ONF.
This place is characterized by the presence of moors and high-altitude forests, as well as peaty environments.
What are the plant and animal species to be protected and the habitats concerned?
”In the Donon area, our attention is particularly focused on the protection of the capercaillie, small mountain owls, various species of woodpeckers, the preservation of peat bogs, high-altitude beech-fir forests and forest stands on rocky scree. “
“At Champ du Feu we devote a large part of our work to the preservation of the moors and the peat bog, which involves channeling attendance. Peatlands play a role as CO2 sensors, crucial in the fight against global warming, induced by the release of greenhouse gases. “
The tourist office participates on a daily basis in raising awareness among visitors and users of the forest, stubble and meadows and in particular about Natura 2000 issues. Each summer, as part of the “Pleasure Trails”, 2 commented outings are devoted to Natura 2000 areas.
To know more :
- Consult the “Natura 2000” brochure available at the Tourist Office,
- Contact the specialist Violette Noselli,
- Go to the website Natura 2000.