How can the construction of whitewater courses be made more environmentally friendly?
Although artificial stadia are sometimes criticised, the Bergerac project will offer an alternative approach to designing whitewater courses.
Built at the level of the dam, the 300-metre-long diversion river, with a 4-metre elevation drop, will comprise:
- A whitewater course for canoeing and kayaking
- A gravity-driven surf wave
- A fish pass to ensure fish continuity.
Finally, the installation of new hydroelectric equipment, in partnership with EDF Hydro, will generate green electricity.
It was the collaboration between all the stakeholders—the département, the community of communes, EDF and a private partner—that made it possible for this fine project to emerge. HYDROSTADIUM and its whitewater project manager, Nicolas, hope to see it completed soon.
