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Reforestation in Petit-Han following oak decline

Context

Located in Petit-Han, in the Province of Luxembourg, this 1.1-hectare forest plot has been affected by oak decline syndrome, a complex phenomenon caused by a combination of factors—primarily climate change (droughts, heat spikes) that weakens trees, making them vulnerable to secondary stresses such as fungi (e.g., Phytophthora, honey fungus) or insect pests (oak borer).

Thanks to the support of Walibi Belgium, this forest—affected by combined hazards and poor past management choices—now benefits from a project aimed at recreating a diverse, resilient stand adapted to local conditions.

Location

The plot is located on the edge of the Bois de Petit-Han woodland, southwest of Durbuy.

Cadastral references: 83016B0199/00C000, 83016B0192/00_000, 83016C0685/00B000, 83016C0685/00C000, 83016B0196/00A000

Location of the reforestation in Petit-Han
  • Reforestation in Petit-Han following oak decline
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PLOT MONITORING

THE PLANTING

The planting took place during the month of March 2026. It was carried out using powered augers. Most sessile oaks were protected from roe deer with tree shelters.

View of the Petit-Han plantation

SURVIVAL RATE

  • October 8, 2026

Despite the very hot summer coupled with significant water stress, the young plants showed a high survival rate, particularly high for field maples and small-leaved limes. Common hornbeams and sessile oaks showed a lower rate, around 65%.

However, it is possible that some plants will recover in the spring, and the apparent dieback corresponds to temporary stress following the specific weather conditions. These plots also showed the presence of significant natural regeneration of sessile oak.

PLOT AUDIT (to be scheduled in 2030)

 

Acting together for more resilient forests

This project illustrates Walibi Belgium’s commitment to supporting concrete actions in favor of biodiversity and the adaptation of territories to climate change. By restoring a degraded forest with species adapted to the environment, this partnership helps recreate a functional ecosystem, beneficial for the climate, water, and local biodiversity.

Main objective
Diversified reforestation

Forest

  • Planting / installation period
    2025
  • PEFC
    No
  • Number of trees
    700
  • Area
    11 000 m²
  • Carbon
    72 T of carbon sequestered over 30 years

List of selected species

Small-leaved lime (Tilia cordata) 100
Field maple (Acer campestre) 100
Common Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus) 100
Sessile Oak (Quercus petraea) 400