Ekolo Mundo does not control the feasibility or viability of the proposed solutions
Solution proposed by : Observatoire herpetologique de Bretagne
Washhouses are often the focus of attention for local governments and organizations, which seek to restore or maintain them. At the same time, given the current decline in wetlands, washhouses and fountains serve as alternative habitats for a wide variety of aquatic and terrestrial species. Some of these artificial water features already support biodiversity, and their maintenance must not compromise their capacity to host these species. Others could be restored with the dual objective of renovating built heritage and providing a new habitat for the species that frequent them.
This guide aims to list and explain all the recommendations to follow for better consideration of biodiversity during restoration and maintenance work on wash houses and fountains in Brittany. The recommendations here focus on amphibians, which constitute an "umbrella group." Taking their vital needs into account in development projects will benefit many animal species. Furthermore, these are protected species, most of which are threatened.
This guide draws on the field experience of local associations such as “Lavoirs et fontaines à Plaintel” and the expertise of naturalist associations involved in the Brittany Herpetological Observatory initiative, led by Bretagne Vivante and VivArmor Nature, with financial support from the European Union, DREAL Bretagne, the Brittany Region, and the departments of Finistère, Côtes-d’Armor, and Ille-et-Vilaine.
