Reach Le Prarion from le Col de Voza

3 points of interest

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  Geology

  Our main freshwater reserves

  In July 2023, 75% of France's groundwater reserves were below normal levels, illustrating the vulnerability of these reserves to climatic fluctuations. Phreatic zone, which accounts for only around 1% of the Earth's total water supply, is a precious but fragile resource, often unseen in the spaces between soil and rock, as well as in the pores, cracks and fractures of rock. These are the places where freshwater is actually stored, not in the subterranean lakes as the majority of people are led to believe due to popular culture. Ultimately, the groundwater balance can change rapidly: in spring 2023, 68% of groundwater reserves were below normal levels, whereas in 2024, over 65% of groundwater reserves will be above average. These fluctuations are having a sizable impact on the hydrologic cycles and the supply of freshwater to ecosystems.

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  Small patrimony

  Three essential missions of a peat bog

  Peat bogs act as natural purification stations, purifying water of its various pollutants (nitrates, sediments, etc.). They produce high-quality water, making them natural sources of drinking water. Thanks to the great absorption capacity of sphagnum mosses (a type of moss typical of peat bogs), peat bogs help to stabilise water levels. They limit the risk of flooding during heavy rains, and help to maintain a regular flow in downstream rivers during droughts. In addition, they are one of the world's largest carbon storage ecosystems. Covering just 3% of the world's land surface, they are thought to contain up to 50% of atmospheric CO2! Help us preserve them by treating the natural environment with respect when you visit the Prarion site.

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  Flora

  Round-leaved sundew

  It is a small carnivorous plant that lives in peat bogs, which are nutrient-poor environments. Have no fear, it only feeds on insects, which it attracts and digests with a viscous substance produced by the red hairs that cover its leaves. It is known by the name of “Rossolis” which means “sundew” because of the shimmering effect of this substance in the light. This is a highly delicate and protected species, so please do not touch it!