The intercommunal entity was recognized among a hundred remarkable initiatives across France, positioning itself as one of the three communities distinguished for the excellence of its commitments in the theme of nature restoration.
This national recognition celebrates a proactive policy pursued for several years by Loire Forez Agglomération to protect the natural richness of its territory, from the Hautes Chaumes du Forez to its valleys and wetlands. The community takes concrete action to restore natural habitats, protect species, and integrate nature into its development projects, in collaboration with elected officials, technicians, farmers, residents, and local stakeholders.
Among the notable achievements, the jury particularly appreciated the restoration of the river La Mare in Boisset-lès-Montrond, which has helped recreate favorable conditions for the return of numerous species, including the beaver. The agglomeration also manages two Natura 2000 sites, home to remarkable environments such as peatlands and high-altitude heathlands.
Loire Forez's commitment extends to the preservation of specific species, such as wild black poplar along the Lignon river. Biodiversity is also integrated into urban spaces, exemplified by the Parc du Pré du Puits in Montbrison, designed to balance quality of life, water management, and urban nature development. The restoration of the Trézaillette riverbanks after a tornado also demonstrates the community's capacity to enhance the territory's resilience to climate events.
This distinction also highlights Loire Forez's ability to unite numerous partners, including farmers, associations, institutions, and scientific actors. Significant funding is mobilized through partnerships with the State (Fonds vert), the Loire-Bretagne Water Agency, the department of the Loire, and the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region.
