TThe scientific program of the Sélune

When the concession for the Vezins and Roche-Qui-Boit hydroelectric dams was not renewed, the French Ministry of the Environment decided that the dams would be removed in 2012. The goal was to restore ecological continuity between the terrestrial and marine habitats connected by the river basin. This decision came about as a result of the EU water framework directive (WFD) and the French Grenelle Environment Forum. An interdisciplinary scientific program ongoing for 16 years (before and after dams dismantling) has been set up under INRA coordination. Researchers follow the ecologic restoration of the river in order to characterize physical, chemical and biological processes in place and to support upcoming societal changes. Scales of study vary from landscape to chemical element. The aim of this program is to get a complete feedback and to bring real recommendations for managers concerning rivers restoration.