The floodplain of the Bois de Finges protected area has been designated “Waterway of the Year 2026” by the Aqua Viva association. As the last major floodplain in the Rhône Valley, it is a hotspot of biodiversity and is also known as the “tropical forest of Switzerland.” It provides flood protection and offers local recreational opportunities. Although the Rhône’s natural hydrological regime is still influenced by riverbanks and hydropower, the Finges Forest demonstrates that targeted renaturation measures are bearing fruit. Thanks to the setting back of the riverbanks, gravel extraction, and the creation of new ponds, habitats have been successfully enhanced, and specialized species such as the little ringed plover have been reintroduced.

With this award, Aqua Viva highlights the importance of floodplains and underscores how essential their protection and restoration are for nature and society. The Pfyn-Finges Nature Park actively contributes to raising awareness by offering field trips and educational activities to school classes to help them understand the importance of this unique ecosystem.