Camargue extends in the Rhône delta that only displays horizontal surfaces that culminate at a maximum altitude of 16.4 ft (5 m). It is characterized in its northern part interspersed with marshes and ponds by a fluvial formation of rich alluvial contributions deposited by the ramifications of the river. The marine and wind deposits, as well as the high salinity of the soils, make its southern part totally unsuitable for agriculture. Subject to all the winds, this land also experiences torrid summers that dry the pastures out. The marshes, barrier beaches, and dunes offer varied and nutritious vegetation of cyperus and phragmites reed used as fodder. Not abundant, it requires large areas per head of livestock. As for the grasses of the higher lands, they poorly resist drought.