Included in the Lorraine Regional Nature Park after its construction in 1971, Madine Lake extends in the Woëvre plain. Its soil primarily consists of clay, and it is therefore naturally covered with marshes. Since the Middle Ages, monks have worked to improve the salubrity of the region. From the 12th century, they drained the plain's wetlands by creating channels and fish ponds. Over time, the Woëvre plain has become a fertile area of orchards and cereals today known as the breadbasket of Lorraine.