Tribute to Eugène DEBERNARDI

The Monegasque Association for the Protection of Nature (AMPN) was created by Ministerial Order No. 75-484 of 21 November 1975 authorizing and approving its statutes.

Eugène DEBERNARDI, a pioneer in environmental protection, was the Founding President of the Monegasque Association for the Protection of Nature.

In 1976, on the initiative of Prince Rainier III, Eugène DEBERNARDI, supported by his Board of Directors, created a first marine reserve of 33 hectares in front of the beaches of Larvotto in order to protect the Posidonia meadow and to offer fauna and flora continued protection.

Very quickly, he was able to share his passion for the protection of the environment, by mobilizing scientists and volunteers. Its first objective was to develop the reserve by immersing artificial reefs. This diversification of habitats has favored the increase and conservation of marine biodiversity.

Scientific projects were then able to be set up, always at the initiative of the AMPN of which Eugène DEBERNARDI was the soul: study of Posidonia, sponges, transplantation of edible sea urchins, reimplantation of noble pen shells...

In 1986, the AMPN proposed the creation of the Spélugues reserve in order to protect the Principality's only coralline drop-off. In situ coral culture experiments have been carried out there, including the construction of artificial caves specially adapted to the development of red coral.

Not wanting to limit himself to the maritime domain, Eugène DEBERNARDI introduced the children to the protection of the land domain by having them actively participate in tree planting. This is how for many years, with the help of the National Forestry Office and the Monegasque Government, children and adults reforested the surrounding hills of the Principality.

Eugène DEBERNARDI devoted his life to our association, introduced a large number of people to the protection of Nature by communicating his passion at a time when the environment was not a priority. He left us in 2009 but the AMPN perpetuates his work.

Thank you Mister DEBERNARDI for all these teachings.
- Tribute movie to Eugène DEBERNARDI -