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This article focuses on the increasing interest in driftwood in rivers as a consequence of negligent watercourse maintenance and consequent spontaneous reforestation. In-channel wood may cause damage, but its ecological benefits are also demonstrated. Therefore, preserving wood - or reintroducing it as in other geographical areas - seems difficult insofar as legislation and the socio-cultural environment hamper improving management of wood in French watercourses. This article shows that driftwood is assessed negatively by public perception. Such irrational factors may influence policy on wood removal.