Located in the commune of Haute-Amance, at the heart of the Amance catchment area, the Val de Presles is a vast wetland covering more than 20 hectares. The site is a veritable wetland corridor: "corridor" because of its elongated configuration, framed by two wooded slopes, and "wetland" to emphasise its marshy nature. The persistent wetness of the area can be explained by its geology, which is made up of layers of impermeable marl that encourage water stagnation.
In the past, the site was used for haymaking, grazing and certain forestry activities. To facilitate this agricultural development, stream straightening work was undertaken to drain the valley floor. The streams, which used to be meandering, were moved towards the slopes, resulting in a profound change to the natural hydrological system. The result of these developments has been to increase the drainage of the environment and alter the ecological balance of the wetland.
With the gradual abandonment of traditional uses, the Val de Presles enjoyed a period of relative tranquillity. The absence of any significant human activity in recent decades has allowed a rich and varied biodiversity to develop. Today, the site and its surrounding areas provide a valuable refuge for many species of conservation concern. These include birds such as the Black Stork and the Dipper, bats such as the Least Rhinolophus and the Common Pipistrelle, and the Yellow-bellied Sounder. Reptiles, insects and heritage plants, such as the Marsh Mallow and the Knapweed, complete this remarkable ecological ensemble.
Le Val de Presles
