The natural heritage of the Pyrenees

However, this biodiversity, in terms of both species and habitats, is threatened. Pollution, over-frequentation, the proliferation of uses (agriculture, nature sports – including fishing, construction of structures and infrastructure, etc.) are all causing pressure on these fragile mountain areas and their wetlands and aquatic environments. These pressures are intensified by the effects of climate change, which are very present in the mountains (changes to water regimes, rising temperatures, reduced snowfall and severe low-water periods in rivers, drying up of ponds, increase in extreme weather events, etc.). The consequences on the survival and reproduction of vulnerable species (aquatic species, birds, plants, etc.) are already visible.

Numerous research teams, fishing federations, water agencies and associations have been working for many years to evaluate these multiple threats, anticipate them more effectively and try to limit their impact.

It is our responsibility, as anglers and organisers of such a major competition, to be aware of this and to do what we can to help preserve these environments.

Two striking examples from the world of fishing are pollution linked to waste (food scraps, fishing line, microplastics, etc) and the transport of disease vectors by waders (shoe soles, folding of waders covered by water) during multi-site fishing sessions on the same day. This vector aspect has become a major issue nowadays, with the emergence of diseases facilitated by climate change, such as Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (multi-species pathogenic fungus on amphibians), fungal disease caused by Saprolegnia and PKD (Proliferative Kidney Disease, linked to a parasite) on fish.