Of artificial origin, Lake Madine and its ponds constitute a sought-after refuge for aquatic avifauna. The Woëvre plain, in which they extend, is the first wintering area in France. On average, 6,000 waterbirds overwinter at the site in January, representing more than 20% of the regional total. In addition to its diverse avian life, the plain's aquatic vegetation is abundant. 10% of Lorraine flora grow there, such as the water buttercup, the sharp-leaved pondweed, and the fen ragwort.