The European Natura 2000 network aims to contribute to preserving biodiversity by ensuring the conservation of habitats and species classified as being of European Community interest, in accordance with the socio-economic , cultural issues and human activities of the territories.
Being part of a Natura 2000 site means possessing a natural heritage recognized at the European level for its richness, but also being able to contribute to the proper functioning of this network, in application of the European Directives " Habitats, Fauna and Flora " and " Birds ".
The EPAGE Doubs-Dessoubre is the coordinator of the Natura 2000 site " Vallée du Dessoubre " , covering an area of 16,636 ha, which extends to the slopes of the valleys of the Dessoubre , the Reverotte and the Doubs, as well as to several peat bog and wetland areas located on the plateaus.
This territory has a great diversity of natural environments and is home to emblematic animal and plant species such as: the Eurasian Eagle-Owl, Schreiber's Long-fingered Owl, the Bullhead, the Yellow-bellied Toad, the Marsh Fritillary and the Brilliant Hypna.
Its inclusion in the Natura 2000 network since 2006 is the result of a local initiative , bringing together communities, users, and local partners. Together, they are committed to better integrating biodiversity considerations into their activities.
©EPAGE Doubs Dessoubre 
©EPAGE Doubs Dessoubre 
©EPAGE Doubs Dessoubre 
©EPAGE Doubs Dessoubre 
©EPAGE Doubs Dessoubre The objective of Natura 2000 is not to "close" natural heritage. The existing activities or infrastructure on a site are not called into question by the inclusion of an area in the Natura 2000 network. It is not intended to prohibit an activity that is carried out in compliance with the texts and laws in force in France.
The actions of a Natura 2000 site translate into commitments by voluntary users in paid contracts of 5 years and of different types depending on the nature of the land and the activity concerned:
The Natura 2000 site coordinates the acquisition and management of natural history data within its territory : inventories, studies, monitoring of fauna and flora, assessments, etc., relating to habitats and species of Community interest that led to the site's designation. This knowledge can be used by various stakeholders in the area and technical partners of the EPAGE Doubs Dessoubre.
You too can participate in the preservation of the natural environments of the Dessoubre Valley site, by carrying out your activities in accordance with the code of good conduct in Natura 2000 sites:
→ I do not light campfires within or less than 200 meters of woods, forests, and plantations throughout the year. This helps prevent fires and protects forest resources.
→ I respect the swimming bans.
→ I stay on marked roads and trails when I move around in a natural environment.
→ I don't leave any litter behind me.
→ I do not venture into the tufa formations and waterfalls of the territory. These environments are sensitive and dangerous.
→ I do not venture into caves . In the event that I engage in caving, I make sure to equip myself properly and to notify the relevant sports federations or associations.
→ I do not seek contact with a wild animal, even if it approaches out of curiosity, and at no time do I try to touch it. I would never feed a wild animal.
→ I take care not to disturb wild animals by avoiding the use of noisy or bright devices at night.
→ I respect the municipal and prefectural decrees in force, particularly during droughts;
→ I respect the prohibitions on trespassing on private property . The majority of the riverbeds in the area are private.
→ I keep myself informed about regulations relating to the Environmental Code as well as those specific to my activity;
Need information or clarification? Contact EPAGE Doubs Dessoubre.
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