Bourbre

The Bourbre is a river in France, located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. It is a left tributary of the Rhône River. The Bourbre originates in the commune of Val-de-Poix in the Ain department and flows through several other communes, including Lagnieu and Meximieux, before joining the Rhône near the town of Niévroz. The total length of the river is approximately 37 kilometers.

The river's course is characterized by a relatively gentle gradient, and it passes through a mix of agricultural land and small towns. Historically, the Bourbre has played a role in local agriculture and industry, providing water for irrigation and powering mills. Today, its primary significance is ecological and recreational, contributing to the biodiversity of the region and offering opportunities for activities such as fishing and walking along its banks.

The Bourbre's watershed covers an area of about 250 square kilometers. The river's flow can vary seasonally, with higher levels typically observed during the spring thaw and autumn rains, and lower levels during summer months. The water quality of the Bourbre is monitored to ensure its health and that of the aquatic life it supports. The river eventually merges with the much larger Rhône River, a significant waterway in southeastern France.