Grand Ried

The Erstein polder is used to regulate the flow of the Rhine, thus avoiding inundations.

As a matter of fact, it is still possible to discover in the reserve the biodiversity which used to exist when the Grand Ried was wild and the Rhine was not canalised.

The commune of Rhinau presents a unique feature: it possesses an area of almost 1000 ha directly at the border, however on German soil.

[1] The landscape is characterised by numerous Baggersee (German word used in Alsace and meaning lakes forming once sand and gravel pits have been shut down) and sand pits which are still being operated.

In Marckolsheim, Rhinau, Gerstheim as well as Strasbourg hydro-electricity is produced by France.