In Hamois, PlantC supported the reforestation of 1,155 trees! In total, there are eight different species.
Project Supported by
Reforestation in Hamois in Detail
In Hamois, this is a reforestation project where PlantC is involved in supporting 1,155 trees across nearly 2 ha. There are eight species: Corsican and Koekelaer black pine, Koster poplar, wild pear, small-leaved lime, sessile oak, downy oak, and wild service tree.
This combination of deciduous and coniferous species is part of a reforestation of an ash plot affected by ash dieback.
Using a diversity of species is beneficial for avifauna (flowers, fruits, and acorns, food sources for birds, insects, and small mammals, for example). Consequently, when leaves fall, humus is generated, and root systems are complementary. This will also impact the recycling of deep elements, the biological activity of the soil, the fixation and structuring of the soil.
- Planting Period: Winter 2022-2023.
- Survival rate: 90% EXCEPT for the pines, which are truly struggling and had to be replanted
- 162.89 tonnes of CO2 sequestered over 30 years.
Project conducted in partnership with the Royal Forestry Society of Belgium.
Visit to the Hamois Plot in 2024
We visited the site on May 17, 2024. The plot, located in the province of Namur, was primarily covered with ash trees. Unfortunately, like most ash trees in Wallonia, they were affected by ash dieback.
Ash dieback is a disease transmitted by a microscopic fungus that attacks the leaves and collar of ash trees. Gradually, the ash leaves wilt and then dry out, preventing the tree from functioning properly.
The problem with ash dieback is that it affects both young and mature trees. Consequently, we are gradually seeing ash trees disappear from our Belgian forests.
The economic consequences are catastrophic, as this wood is valued for its mechanical qualities (hard and flexible), and also for its calorific value when used as firewood.
In terms of biodiversity, it is also a great loss, as its light foliage allows natural regeneration to grow, offers multiple hiding places for insects, and provides cover for birds.
The Planting
The good news is that 5% of ash trees are reportedly resistant to ash dieback! This would prevent the species from completely disappearing from our forests. However, they must obviously be preserved, which is not always easy when these trees are mixed with diseased ones…
The owner took a gamble on eight different species, and he is right! In the context of climate change, it is important not to put all your eggs in one basket. Indeed, with diseases and insect attacks becoming more prevalent, some species are ideal targets.
We are firmly convinced that in the future, the species we have will shape the timber market, so it is wise to diversify one’s forest!
Among the species, we have:
Sessile Oak: 400 individuals
Downy Oak: 250 individuals
Koekelaer Pine: 100 individuals
Small-leaved Lime: 125 individuals
Koster Poplar: 30 individuals
Wild Service Tree: 100 individuals
Corsican Black Pine: 100 individuals
Wild Pear: 50 individuals
Stay tuned for more forest adventures!
