The Saint-Éloi marsh fulfils important ecological functions. First of all, it acts as a sedimentation basin for all the waters of the small agricultural watershed that flow into it. Indeed, this humid environment plays a key role in the quality of the water that flows into the river since it retains particles and fertilizers coming from the agricultural environment. In addition, it helps to regulate water levels by absorbing surpluses during spring floods. Finally, it provides habitat for numerous species of plants and animals. Although the importance of this site is known to the surrounding population, it is nevertheless subject to pressures that are likely to compromise its ecological integrity. These various pressures, namely agriculture, proximity to a populated area, and marsh filling over time, will be described in this document.
The Les Deux Rives ZIP Committee has drawn up a plan for the conservation of wildlife habitats in the Saint-Éloi marsh, which is aimed for managers and environmental actors. It proposes guidelines and recommendations to ensure the sustainability and improvement of the natural resources present in this sector.