Restoring 17 hectares of biodiversity

  • Projects

As part of the reopening of the Belfort-Delle line in the Territoire-de-Belfort département, SNCF Réseau had to implement a 17-hectare program of compensatory measures, focusing mainly on the restoration of wetlands, and the preservation of woodland and hay meadows, in order to favor protected species. One of the relevant sites identified was the watershed of the Bourbeuse river in the commune of Froidefontaine, an area potentially conducive to the reproduction of various fish species. SNCF Réseau commissioned two consultancies, including Naldeo, to carry out an ecological diagnosis prior to implementing the actions.

The main challenge of this assignment was to carry out an initial assessment of the flora and fauna issues at stake, with particular emphasis on the preservation of trees and surrounding habitats. The aim was to analyze the potential impacts, both positive and negative, of the restoration project on these habitats. Where negative impacts were identified, corrective measures were to be considered.

An innovative approach was required for this Bourbeuse restoration project, to ensure the preservation of protected species on the site. The organization of the works was carefully thought out to minimize negative impacts on the various environments during the works. In addition, multi-year monitoring of biodiversity after restoration was recommended to assess any changes in local biodiversity.

This methodology enabled ecological issues to be better integrated into the restoration project, demonstrating SNCF Réseau's commitment to preserving the environment.

Restoring 17 hectares of biodiversity