Réserve Naturelle Régionale des Isles du Drac

The Regional Nature Reserve Isles Drac was created in 2009 and covers 15 kilometers along the Drac south of Grenoble. Located at the crossroads of mountain and Mediterranean climatic influences, the Natural Reserve of the Drac Isles presents a mosaic of natural habitats harboring great biodiversity. There are 35 habitats, ranging from lowland forest to the dry grasslands through the shingle banks. This variety allows the presence of many species, 603 plant species including 38 of heritage interest and 397 animal species, including 80 of heritage interest have been identified to date. The site presents the advantage of being one of the last rivers in braids (several intertwined channels) of this dimension in the Northern Alps. In addition, the valley is home in his basement a large water table that allows drinking water to power the city of Grenoble. This is an area of ​​both natural and suburban, strongly influenced by human activities, including the production of drinking water for the city of Grenoble, and hydroelectric power generation by EDF.

Why a Natural Reserve:

Missions: The objectives of the reserve are recorded in its management plan, a document that defines and organizes actions. These objectives are:

• Restore the alluvial dynamics of Drac,
• Maintain sustainable environments and species
• Maintain degraded sites,
• Fight against invasive species
• Acquire new scientific knowledge,
• Manage attendance and enforce regulations,
• Conduct promotional events and education.