The project aims to remove the vannage at Saint-Julien-sur-Reyssouze and reconnect 6 km of the river.
The Reyssouze is a 75 km long tributary of the Saône River. It flows through the Ain department and plays a crucial role in local biodiversity and water management. Its watershed includes numerous wetlands and stretches of river with a low gradient. In Saint-Julien-sur-Reyssouze, human modifications have altered its natural course, resulting in habitat degradation and the loss of ecological connectivity.
The restoration project aims to rehabilitate riverbanks, recreate natural morphology, and improve water quality to support the return of aquatic and riparian species. It forms part of wider efforts to strengthen ecological resilience and protect landscapes, while addressing local needs such as flood prevention and community development.
Collaboration among public authorities, associations, and residents is essential to balance environmental, agricultural and recreational interests along this section of the Reyssouze.
| Project status | Live |
|---|---|
| Project type | Enabling others to remove dams |
| Country | France |
| River | Reyssouze |
| Km to be opened | 6.7 km |
| Focal species | Esox lucius, Barbus barbus, Cyprinidae |
| Organisation | Syndicat du Bassin Versant de la Reyssouze |
| Website | Étude restauration de la Reyssouze à Saint-Julien-sur-Reyssouze |
The local context is favourable, as the ownership and current management of the Saint-Julien dam are public. Local decision-makers also support its removal, which is another positive factor. Removing the dam will make it possible to undertake ambitious restoration work on the Reyssouze.
The project should also improve quality of life and allow residents to reclaim areas currently occupied by the reservoir. There is strong potential to develop educational spaces focused on the environment and biodiversity.
The project aims to remove a 1.4 m high dam and restore the Reyssouze and Reyssouzet rivers over a 6 km stretch. The Saint-Julien dam removal initiative seeks to meet its specific objectives while contributing to ecological restoration and community involvement, offering insights for future conservation and sustainable development efforts.
The project aims to restore the river’s natural functions, its phytoremediation capacity, and a functional riparian buffer, as well as to improve river morphology and increase the diversity of aquatic habitats. It will also enhance the living environment for local residents, strengthen climate resilience, and support river-related activities such as fishing and agriculture.
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