Lake Madine was artificially created to serve as a water reservoir for the city of Metz. Before its construction on the course of the Madine river, hydrological studies were conducted to determine the volume necessary to face severe periods of drought. The impoundment was completed in 1976, and a leisure center and a port were added a few years later. Today, Lake Madine is a renowned Lorraine location and a refuge for more than 250 bird species.