Collapses in Haraucourt

When you drive to Haraucourt from Varangéville or Buissoncourt, you see them a bit away from the road. Big ponds, more or less full with water depending on the season. They are not "natural" ponds but collapses due to salt extraction.

In the 1960s, there were still meadows and fields where these big holes are today. There was a small road to go to an old farm standing near the Roanne river. One day, in the 1970s, a big hole appeared nearly at the place a farmer was working the day before.

There is salt underdround, a layer which is 180 meters under our feet. Water is injected and the brine is pumped up. It is used to get salt, of course, but also to make soda and its derivatives. It started in 1904, 110 years ago.

New technology has helped to know what is underground, but collapses can still happen. The holes are not consolidated yet so it is not possible to go in this area. As it is not as dangerous as before, sometimes people can visit these protected area, take pictures and observe birds.

The landscape has changed. Where there was a small hill, the ground is flatter and you can see the next village which was not visible 50 years ago (apart from its bell tower).

Maybe, one day, we will be able to walk free in this part of the village again. At the moment, game and birds are the ones who enjoy living there.

Comments

[kay Lamb]

Very sad that assuming we are wise we have lost the wisdom of how to live and care for out home. I hope for our sake and this beautiful place we have been given to be in that some how we are straightened out before it is too late

[Maryse]

I think new technology and regular studies have changed the situation and, apparently, the village (the houses) is not concerned by salt extraction and would be on "rock". But I suppose they will keep checking this area for ages. They are more concerned than they used to be.