Forest management

Forest flora and fauna

The forest is home to great natural diversity, thanks to the variety of its soils and subsoil, the presence of several watercourses and an irregular topography. Oak and ash are the dominant species. These are intermingled with beech, chestnut, maple and many other deciduous and coniferous trees.

The rich diversity of habitats means the forest is home to many animal species, including various types of woodpeckers and kingfishers, among others. In spring, the undergrowth is transformed into a colourful carpet of daffodils, hyacinths and wood anemones. In autumn, an abundance of chestnuts and mushrooms ensure even the finest connoisseurs can take some home to enjoy.

Timber cutting work is organised by space and time. The entire forest is mapped and divided into “sections”, which are further subdivided into “plots”, within which trees are marked for harvesting and sale according to species, size and quality. Timber is harvested from each section every 12 years. The choice of species and number of trees to be felled is decided on the basis of an inventory carried out before “hammering” (marking the trunks of the trees to be felled). In addition to health and safety considerations, the purpose of this work is to allow the regeneration of the forest by natural means, if possible. Thinning out the larger trees gives younger saplings the space and light needed to grow.

At the end of the harvest period, no more felling will take place for 12 years, giving the forest time to grow and replenish the timber taken. The trees left behind will grow even larger, young seedlings will take root and flourish, and planting may be carried out as needed.

Some plots in the forest are exempt from logging, as they are classed as “wilderness reserve” areas. In these areas, no trees are cut down and the forest is left to grow freely with no human intervention. Additionally, throughout the forest, large dead trees and trees with specific features or that fill a specific environmental niche are identified by a standardised label. These are left untouched to fall down and rot naturally.

This management method aims to create and maintain a forest with a mix of tree species, ages and sizes, that is more resistant to disease, pests and extreme events, and more resilient to the climate change that is beginning to be felt. It provides a fair balance between environment al and economic concerns, and offers visitors a welcoming, sustainable place to visit.