In Denée, this is a restoration planting after localized clearing due to bark beetle attacks. This program aimed to support 2,000 trees.
PROJECT SUPPORTED BY
DENEE: REFORESTATION FOR CLIMATE AND BIODIVERSITY
Nine species were planted. Across the entire reforestation project, PlantC supported the planting of 2,000 trees:
- Silver Birch: 333
- Small-leaved Lime: 167
- Crabapple: 33
- Wild Pear Tree: 33
- Wild Cherry: 167
- Sessile Oak: 417
- Chestnut Tree: 417
- Turkish Hazel: 16
- American Oak: 417
- Planting period: Autumn 2021.
- The survival rate was checked in autumn 2022.
- 305.3 tonnes of CO2 sequestered over 30 years.
The forest management is PEFC certified.
Species diversity contributes to biodiversity preservation thanks to melliferous species and the fruits they will produce (e.g., acorns). The selected species produce a leaf litter that decomposes properly, helping to improve the fertility and life of the forest soil. The roots also help stabilize the soil substrate.
This project is carried out in partnership with the Royal Forestry Society of Belgium.
VISIT TO THE PLOT IN DENEE IN 2023
On May 16, 2023, the forester warmly welcomed us to the recently reforested plot. Very quickly, as we covered the short distance between our meeting point and the project, we observed the remains of damage from the 2021 storms. The area is heavily traversed, naturally, by water sources. However, the intensity of the summer 2021 rains was unprecedented. The ecosystems could not absorb this shock. The basin and irrigation system previously put in place at the time are no longer suitable today. The storms now bring a significant volume of water in a single event. In the past, rainy events were less violent and more spaced out. Furthermore, on the plot we are concerned with, the water table is less than 10 meters below the surface.
Before reaching the plot in question, we walked through other wooded areas of varying ages. It was then that we became aware of the different management approaches depending on the area. As the forester explained: “The Earth provides what is needed; one must know how to work with it.”
Due to the presence of water in the soil, the forester explained why planting should always occur at the beginning of winter. Neither too early, nor too late! Finally, the site characteristics favor the use of deciduous species. Old conifers are present, and the manager naturally allows this cohabitation because the aim is precisely to test different management approaches. The soil is calcareous, so the most important thing is to mix the tree populations. Furthermore, regarding the Turkish hazel, it is also a small, experimental stand of 16 individuals, proposed under the advice of the forest manager.
DENEE, AN EXEMPLARY MANAGEMENT
A very original and interesting fact: the forester calls upon scouts to help with the maintenance of the plots. This is a good compromise during camps, but above all, passion and knowledge are passed on. Furthermore, our host is a forest guide, a real asset in raising user awareness! On average, the forester spends at least one day a week in his forest plots. Nevertheless, he is assisted by the manager for the monitoring of the woodlands.
Herbivore pressure is significant, which is why a fence surrounds the young woodland. This is to protect the saplings from damage caused by roe deer and wild boar. Good news and bad news: the hare is returning to the region, but it passes under the fence. However, it is clear that herbaceous flora is also present on site, benefiting from the area’s exposure to light.
We address the famous question of the ash tree. Indeed, this species is threatened by pests. Nearby, the remaining individuals are falling one after another. This is why the forester has decided not to replant them. Furthermore, for the same reasons, the species is becoming increasingly difficult to find in nurseries.
Very importantly, across the entire forest area, only this plot is not classified as a Natura2000 zone. Nevertheless, its management is PEFC certified.
We left very pleased and delighted to have met this very conscientious beneficiary. Thank you to him for his trust, and thank you to you for your support in this reforestation project.
