Perhaps you have heard whispers about a secret passage for fish. That passage exists right here at the Observation de la passe à poissons. It is a fascinating blend of nature and engineering. This ingenious system allows fish of the Rhine River to bypass the imposing Strasbourg hydroelectric plant safely.
The Observation de la passe à poissons isn’t just a technical achievement. It symbolizes a strong commitment to preserving the Rhine’s ecosystem. The association Saumon-Rhin champions this cause. After studies and projects, this installation restores the river’s ecological continuity. It offers safe passage to fish species such as salmon, sea trout, and lamprey.
The Observation de la passe à poissons features a clever design. It has a double entrance, one for large migratory fish and another for local fish. The route resembles a grand staircase. It consists of 18 concrete pools. Each pool is elevated 20 cm above the previous one. This is followed by a 500-meter pseudo-natural river. Another series of 18 pools allows fish to reach the top of the power plant. Fish can cross the dam safely. Water is turbined to generate electricity via a small 1.5 MW power plant.
These fish ladders play a key role in maintaining aquatic biodiversity. They help many species survive by easing their migration to breeding grounds. Thanks to structures like the Observation de la passe à poissons, fish populations can thrive.
The Rhine River was once rich in salmon. Hundreds of thousands migrated each year. Sadly, canalization, pollution, and dams led to the disappearance of this iconic species. Protective initiatives are helping the salmon make a comeback. These programs aim to reduce pollution and improve ecosystems. They also facilitate the re-introduction of migratory fish. The Allier strain of salmon was chosen to repopulate the Rhine. It is well-suited for long migrations. The first spawning grounds were observed in the Lower Rhine in 1994. A salmon swam upriver to Iffezheim in 1995. The Observation de la passe à poissons plays a vital role in reviving the Rhine’s salmon population.
The Observation de la passe à poissons offers discovery and awareness for the public. A marked hiking trail called “Sentier de l’eau qui tourne” loops around the dam and fish ladder facilities. The walk lasts less than an hour. It takes you to the automated counting station and observation area. Visitors learn how the facility works. They understand the importance of biodiversity through explanatory panels. Try to spot fish from the observation area. It is not always easy as the water can be murky. You are lucky to see a salmon.
The Saumon-Rhin association works in schools. Children raise salmon in the classroom. Once large enough, they release them into the Bruche. It is a tributary of the Ill and then the Rhine. Like the Rhine salmon, significant efforts ensure its survival. Every species has a place in biodiversity. Each one deserves our attention and protection.
So, as you stand here, remember the journey of the fish. Appreciate the efforts to restore balance. The Observation de la passe à poissons stands as a beacon of hope. It shows how humans and nature can coexist.