A methodological approach of fluvial dynamics oriented towards hydrosystemmanagement: case study of the Loire and Allier rivers

This study was conducted as part of the European LIFE Loire Nature program for the conservation and management of a 110-km-long section of the Loire a nd Allier rivers, an area renowned for its ecological richness. The methodo logical approach is based on statistical analysis (bivariate and multivaria te analyses) of hydro-geomorphologic and biogeographical variables, complem ented by reach typology and mapping. The main results show, on the one hand , the great spatial variability of fluvial mosaic complexity along the rive r continuum and on the other hand, some independence between the riparian f orest characteristics and the channel forms. The fluvial pattern (e.g. anab ranching) and the forest establishment along the Loire river register speci fic features. (C) 2000 Editions scientifiques et medicales Elsevier SAS.