On October 5 and 6, 2026, Voies navigables de France (VNF) will carry out work on the banks of the Île des Impressionnistes, on the Chatou side, to cut down about thirty diseased or dead trees. These operations, aimed at limiting the spread of a fungal disease known as sooty bark disease, will result in the towpath being closed to traffic for the duration of the work.
The affected trees, particularly sycamore and field maples, are infected by the fungus Cryptostroma corticale. This disease causes rapid decline and weakens the wood, increasing the risk of falling branches or trees for walkers and users of the waterway. The work will proceed, weather permitting.
The felling will affect the towpath on the bank of the Île des Impressionnistes, Chatou side, as well as an area upstream of the dam in Croissy-sur-Seine. For safety reasons, signage will be installed, and VNF agents will supervise the operations. Work will begin after 8:30 AM to minimize noise, and tools will be cleaned and disinfected to prevent fungal spread.
Sooty bark disease manifests as dry branches, yellowing foliage, bark blistering, and progressive wilting. There is no known curative treatment, making felling necessary for severely affected trees. Interventions are prioritized in autumn and winter.
