Reforestation in Anthisnes

Site Visit in 2022

On June 22, 2022, the PlantC team visited the site in the presence of the forester. Welcoming us to the plot, Humbert reminded us of the origin of the reforestation project: the existing trees suffered damage from bark beetles and ash dieback.

It was then decided to clear-cut the area to reforest it afterwards with a diversity of woody species.

We can then observe an excellent establishment of the tree seedlings! The space is large, and we can see the project’s impact on biodiversity! Raspberry, elderberry, St. John’s wort, wood sage, bramble, and foxglove: it’s a feast for flora and fauna! Indeed, in the first years of reforestation, the opening of the environment allows light to penetrate, and a previously dormant seed bank can finally express itself! Bramble can play an important role: by growing around a woody plant, its thorns protect the young plant from game attacks.

The forester also explained to us, “there’s something for everyone,” and he decided to plant wild apple trees for the game.

The plot is well monitored. Rotary mowing is carried out to prevent the seedlings from being overgrown. A balance must therefore be found. The rotary mower then passed over one in three rows. But the idea is to leave as much vegetation as possible for pollinators, birds, etc. Furthermore, there are beehives nearby!

During our visit, we heard several birds singing, including nuthatches, raptors….