An agreement has been signed.
Since its creation in 2015, the Causses du Quercy National Nature Reserve of Geological Interest has stood out for the exceptional richness of its paleontological and geological heritage. Managed by the Regional Natural Park – UNESCO Global Geopark of the Causses du Quercy on behalf of the State, it constitutes a showcase of biodiversity and a unique testimony to the history of the Earth.
If the Geopark has no regulatory vocation with the exception of the control of motorized leisure activities and advertising, it fulfills environmental policing missions on the 86 protected sites of the Reserve, in accordance with national provisions. . These interventions, carried out by sworn agents, aim to prevent and punish attacks on this fragile heritage. From now on, mobilization is strengthening: two sworn agents will now intervene in all 21 municipalities concerned.
On November 19, an important step was taken in the preservation of the territory with the signing of an agreement between the Regional Natural Park – UNESCO Global Geopark of the Causses du Quercy and the Lot Gendarmerie group, represented respectively by Catherine Marlas, president of the Parc-Géoparc, and Colonel Bertrand Loddé, commander of the group. This signing took place in the presence of Véronique Jourdan, elected delegate of the commune of Marcilhac-sur-Célé, Quentin Vautrin, curator of the reserve, and Matthieu Jaegle, geologist of the reserve.
This collaboration marks a common desire to raise public awareness of environmental issues and to actively fight against attacks on biodiversity.
The objectives of the convention:
Exchange of information: pooling of observations and findings relating to damage and violations on the sites.
Joint actions: organization of patrols, joint operations and awareness-raising actions among citizens and local stakeholders.
Consultation and expertise: provision of technical and scientific advice by the Parc-Géoparc to the Gendarmerie.
Mutual training: sharing skills and experiences in matters of regulation, conflict management, and enhancement of natural heritage.
This agreement illustrates the commitment of the Geopark in the construction of a territory resolutely turned towards the future, within the framework of the revision of its Charter and the drafting of the second management plan of the Reserve.
By joining forces, the Parc-Géoparc and the gendarmerie are equipping themselves with an effective tool to fight against the looting and damage that threatens protected sites. This partnership goes well beyond the perimeter of the Reserve, offering reinforced support in the face of attacks on biodiversity throughout the territory of the Geopark.
> For any request for additional information, please contact the Regional Natural Park – Causses du Quercy UNESCO Global Geopark or the Lot Gendarmerie Group.
