Madine Lake was filled with water in 1976 to constitute a continuous drinking water reserve for the city of Metz. It has been part of a National Hunting and Wild Fauna Reserve since 1998. A rich and diverse avifauna dwells in the abundant aquatic vegetation of its banks, filled with fish and amphibians. More than 250 bird species have elected Madine Lake as a breeding ground or resting area during migration periods.