The Amblève region is a rural and agricultural landscape known for its extensive forest massifs and its many trails, which welcome walkers, horse riders and cyclists exploring the countryside around the River Amblève. Its forests are dominated by conifers: around 75% of the current stands are spruce, planted decades ago as monoculture. Widespread bark beetle damage has weakened and killed large numbers of these spruce trees. In response, Go Forest supports a large-scale, long-term restoration project in the area. We started in 2023 and have continued the work in the seasons since. Localized thinning removes the weakened and infected spruce, helping to protect the trees that remain. Because adult spruce demands a lot of light, very little reaches the forest floor, which limits natural regeneration. Selective thinning creates more space and light for regeneration to occur, and new trees are also planted to restore the stand and support diversity. In 2026, the planting continued with mainly beech, and also some European silver fir. The exact number of trees and geolocation will be updated soon. The long-term goal is an irregular forest stand with varied age classes and species composition, better equipped to face future environmental challenges. The forest will be maintained according to continuous cover forestry principles, through ongoing thinning and progressive canopy reduction that irregularizes the stands and initiates assisted natural regeneration.

The Steenhuffel reforestation project aims to transform 3.8 hectares of low-diversity grassland, formerly used as a hayfield, into a mixed hardwood forest with continuous canopy. Before the project, the site which is located near the Robbeek creek, had low ecological and economic value and offered significant potential for biodiversity enhancement and ecosystem services, including carbon sequestration, soil protection, water capture, and biodiversity conservation. A total of 9525 trees will be planted during the 2024-2025 season, representing numerous native species such as Alnus glutinosa, Prunus padus, Betula pendula, Carpinus betulus, Fraxinus excelsior and many others. The project will also include shrubs along the forest edge to protect biota. This project will significantly enhance local biodiversity and ecological value while contributing to climate resilience. - Maintenance (2025–2028): Annual mowing of competitive weeds - Biodiversity and Management: The site will be managed as a mixed hardwood forest, with no identified biotic or abiotic risks. No existing large deadwood or standing trees will require removal prior to planting. The field work will be executed by Bomenplanter.be (Meulebeke), with tree saplings supplied by SYLVA bv. Plantation updates: - Planting date: Trees were planted between 14 and 18 April 2025. - 9525 trees planted: The mix includes 12% Alnus glutinosa, 12% Prunus padus, 6% each of Betula pendula, Betula pubescens, Carpinus betulus, Fraxinus excelsior, Prunus avium, Quercus robur, and Tilia cordata. Additionally, 34% of the planting consists of native shrubs, mostly along the forest edge, including Acer campestre, Cornus sanguineum, Crataegus monogyna, Euonymus europaeus, Ilex aquifolium, Ligustrum vulgare, Mespilus germanica, Prunus spinosa, Rosa arvensis, Rosa canina, Sambucus nigra, and Viburnum opulus. - Monitoring summary: Due to prolonged wet conditions in early 2025, planting was delayed and the trees were stored in cold conditions to maintain dormancy. Planting was done in rows, with holes drilled for each tree. No sensitive habitats were affected. - Maintenance: Follow-up may be needed depending on soil and weather conditions.

This project is located in Durnal, Belgium (postal code 5530), and involves the replanting of a forest following a bark beetle infestation that severely affected the spruce trees. This reforestation effort aims to increase the resilience of the forest by diversifying tree species, enhancing ecosystem services such as climate change mitigation, biodiversity protection, and water cycle contribution. Specifically, the project will involve the planting of 2575 trees over an area of 1.6 hectares at an altitude of 260 meters on loamy, gravelly soils with natural drainage, favorable for forest growth. Species distribution will include Atlas cedars, Scots pines and alders, with a planting arrangement alternating two lines of cedars and two lines of Scots pines, while six lines of alders will be planted along the watercourse. We aim to maintain 10% birch regeneration in the final tree composition. The planting with plants provided by Pepinières Pirothon is executed during the 2024-2025 season and will also include protective measures against wildlife. Plantation updates: - Planting period: The trees were planted between December 2024 and January 2025 - 2575 trees planted: 1050 Atlas cedars (40.78%), 1050 Scots pines (40.78%) and 475 alders (18.44%) - Monitoring summary: The site covers part of a 3.5-hectare area previously cleared of spruce affected by bark beetles. Planting was done in mixed lines, with terrain prepared by mulching and protected using repellent. Weather conditions were humid. - Maintenance: Clearing is planned to support tree growth.

In winter 2023-2024, 1.7 hectares was reforested in Lasne Maransart, about 40 km from Brussels. A total of 4,200 trees were planted, with final additions completed in 2024. Replanting was needed because the plot showed little natural regeneration beyond birch, and the existing vegetation lacked the diversity to cope well with future conditions. Introducing a greater variety of species was therefore essential to build resilience against climate change and potential challenges over the long term. The mix consists of 80% sessile oak, 10% small-leaved lime and 10% Byzantine hazel. Monitoring update, June 2026: - 4,200 trees planted: 80% sessile oak, 10% small-leaved lime and 10% Byzantine hazel, in mixed rows of 3 oaks to 1 lime tree in a staggered pattern, with four rows of edge planting along the boundary. - The recovery rate stands at 100%, and the plot's overall sanitary state is very good. No biotic or climatic damage was observed. - Manual clearing and game protection have been carried out. No replanting is needed. - Natural regeneration of oak and maple is present on site and will be preserved. - Overall, the plantation is doing very well! During another field visit in September 2026, we confirmed the continued healthy growth of the trees.

Vin du Pays de Herve is a cooperative started in 2017, a project where locals invested in building a local vineyard. They aim to create over 10ha of bio vineyard, with respect for the environment and biodiversity. The head of the farming operations currently aims to reshape the vineyard to further promote biodiversity. This will be done through: • Planting tiered hedges along the edges of the plots (as a shelter for foxes, birds, and other animals), thereby doubling certain existing hedges and creating new ones • Create flowered strips along the edges of the plots to attract more bees. • Further vegetation creation on slopes to prevent erosion, installing ponds, increasing the number of perches,.... • Improve collaboration with local shepherds to control weed growth and with a local beekeeper for the installation of beehives. We aim to support this project by helping to fund the plantation of 5794 trees in the season of 2024-2025, many of which will be hedges. Various native species will be used in five nearby sites. In addition to its obvious ecological importance for biodiversity (animal habitats, soil conservation, water management, air quality), there are many other social, landscape, tourism and economic benefits. Vin du Pays de Herve wants to connect the plots to existing hiking trails and create educational panels on animal life (wildlife, small animals, insects) and local flora. Several hiking trails already run along the vineyard plots and one of them, 22 km long, goes around them. In addition, a winery is an important living and meeting place suitable for organizing events, trainings, facility visits, vineyard presentations, etc. Vin du Pays de Herve has already applied for public subsidies for the planting of hedgerows, but this support will not be sufficient to implement the entire project. Moreover, they do not have all the technical expertise required for this development. This is also why there’s a collaboration with Go Forest and technical partner Sylva Nova. Plantation updates: - Planting period: The trees were planted between March 25 and April 1, 2025. - 5794 trees were planted, of which 2701 were funded through Go Forest: Species included 22% field maple, 16% hornbeam, 15% hawthorn, 10% guelder rose, 10% Cornelian cherry, 5% alder buckthorn, 5% spindle, 5% bird cherry, 3% dog rose, 2% fly honeysuckle, and smaller proportions of elder, rowan, sessile oak, bloodtwig dogwood, hazel, eared willow, white willow, Norway maple, sweet chestnut, pedunculate oak, pear, apple, and walnut. - Monitoring summary: Trees were planted in double or triple staggered rows over 1,720 meters. The terrain was occasionally rocky but did not significantly hinder progress. - Maintenance: Future clearing will be done if herbaceous vegetation competes too strongly with the young trees.

The Baclain project, located in the Parc Naturel des Deux Ourthes (Gouvy, Belgium), focuses on the reforestation of a 2.5-hectare plot of fallow land previously used for coniferous plantations. The plot is surrounded by diverse-aged forests with mixed species and is very close to the Wez de Halleux stream. This rural area, rich in natural and agricultural landscapes, has soils conducive to forest growth, specifically loamy soils with favorable natural drainage. Scheduled for the season of 2024-2025, we introduce 7,650 new trees using a mixed planting approach. The species composition includes 34% Douglas fir, 33% larch, 20% beech, 10% oak, and 3% chestnut, with spacing tailored to each species' needs. Ground preparation will involve band tillage, with residual vegetation mulched and wildlife deterrents applied to protect young saplings. The regeneration of native species such as birch, sorb, and oak is anticipated, complementing the planted trees. This balanced approach will promote a resilient forest structure that aligns with regional biodiversity and climate goals. In general, the project aims to restore the land's ecological and economic value by reestablishing forest cover and enhancing ecosystem services such as water quality, flood mitigation, soil protection, and carbon sequestration. It transforms neglected land into a thriving forest ecosystem, contributing to local environmental, social, and economic benefits. Plantation update: - 7650 trees were planted in March-April 2025: 2601 Douglas firs (34%), 2525 larches (33%), 1530 beeches (20%), 765 oaks (10%) and 229 chestnuts (3%). - Monitoring summary: The plantation took place on 2.5 hectares across several parcels in Gouvy. The terrain was prepared in advance and treated with natural forest latex. Douglas and larches were planted in mixed rows (2x1.7m), while beeches and oaks were placed along the borders (2x1.5m). A field visit in June 2026 showed a good establishment of the trees, along with natural regeneration of birch & rowan. - Maintenance: Clearing will be necessary due to the abundance of ferns.

The Amblève project, located in the commune of Amblève (BE 4770) and in the Amblève bassin, involves a reforestation initiative in response to an ongoing bark beetle infestation affecting the region's spruce forests. Rather than clear-cutting the entire area, selective extraction of infested trees is being implemented. This method varies depending on the situation, with some areas undergoing large or small-scale clear-cutting while others focus on isolated spruce removal. Following last season's intervention with 10,500 trees, another 14,280 trees are planted during the season of 2024-2025, in a mix of 1.5m x 1.5m (islands) or 2m x 2.5m spacing (in larger areas). The replanting will prioritize beech trees (88%) due to their adaptability to low-light conditions, particularly in small clusters. Other species, including hornbeam, linden, and maple, will be introduced in varying proportions, depending on the specific site conditions. There is significant wildlife pressure, but not enough to threaten the plantations. The manager plans to protect the planting clusters with small localized fences. The restoration effort aims to restore forest cover, enhance species diversity, and strengthen the forest's resilience to climate change. The project can be expanded up to 100,000 trees. The area, known for its rich rural and agricultural landscape, attracts hikers, cyclists, and horse riders exploring the extensive forests around the Amblève River. Historically, the region's forests were damaged during World War II, particularly during the Ardennes Offensive, and were subsequently replanted with spruce, which has proven vulnerable to pests and storms. The project is integrated into a special zone (ZIP), is easy accessible, and offers opportunities for site visits. Plantation updates: - Planting period: The plantation took place between November 2024 and February 2025. - 14280 trees planted: 11480 beeches, 1200 hornbeams, 1200 maples and 400 lindens. - Monitoring summary: The planting was carried out over 15.64 hectares of former spruce forest. Despite regular snow and freezing conditions, the weather did not hinder the work. Trees were planted in clusters, either under existing spruce stands or following clear-cutting. The terrain was prepared beforehand, and protection measures were applied where needed. No major difficulties were encountered.

In Tintange, in the Belgian Ardennes, two monoculture spruce plots were badly hit by bark beetles between 2022 and 2025. The infested trees were removed, leaving 2.3 hectares largely bare. 6,090 trees will be planted during the 2026-2027 season to restore these plots. The site is challenging, with shallow, rocky soil and one plot on a very steep slope. Earlier trials with deciduous trees, notably oaks, showed a low survival rate, so the new forest is built around a mix of conifers suited to these conditions. Douglas fir and European larch are planted on the first plot (0.8 ha). A mix of Scots pine, Corsican pine and Koekelaere pine is planted on the steeper second plot (1.5 ha), with Norway spruce along the access paths. In the long term, the forest will be managed according to irregular, continuous forest cover principles

The Isle la Hesse project, located in Bastogne, Belgium, aims to establish a visually impactful arboreal border between agricultural fields and the national road. Covering 0.3 hectares at an altitude of 550 meters, the plantation will consist of 825 trees, including a mix of arboreal and shrub species such as hawthorns, black elders, European rowans, alder buckthorn, bird cherry, European larches, yews, Douglas firs, Nordmann firs and silver firs. The planting arrangement includes a single line of 250 shrubs followed by four lines of mixed conifers. The project contributes to biodiversity by creating an expanded forest edge that serves as a refuge for wildlife while enhancing the landscape’s natural aesthetics and tranquility. The reforestation effort is executed in the season of 2024-2025, with site preparation in October 2024. The planting process involves light soil preparation, with specific techniques including the use of low-pressure tires and game protection measures. Historically, the site holds significance, as the Château de Isle la Hesse served as a nighttime headquarters for General McAuliffe during the Battle of the Ardennes in World War II. Plantation updates: - Planting date: The trees were planted from March 7 to March 9, 2025. - 875 trees planted: The final plantation included a mix of native and coniferous species: 50 hawthorns, 50 black elders, 50 rowan trees, 50 alder buckthorns, 50 bird cherries, 50 European larches, 75 yews, 100 Douglas firs, 200 Nordmann firs, and 200 silver firs. This exceeds the initial plan of 825 trees, with increased numbers of Nordmann and silver firs. - Monitoring summary: The planting was carried out under good weather conditions, with no issues reported. Tree quality and size were appropriate, and all planned species were available. The site, located in Bastogne and covering 0.3 hectares, was prepared by line milling on February 19. Planting was done in mixed lines by professional planters. No difficulties were encountered during the operation. Clearing is planned to support the growth and health of the young trees. A field visit in June 2026 confirmed that the trees continue to grow well. Monitoring in July 2026 showed a recovery rate of 80% for the hedge species and 90% for the conifers, with a good overall health status. No climatic damage was recorded. Biotic damage from game was noted, affecting 20% of the hedge species and 10% of the conifers.

The Sohan project focuses on restoring forest resilience across three forest areas in Theux, where several stands have been weakened by fungal disease, aging trees and climate‑related stress. Extreme weather events, particularly the heavy rains and floods of 2021 in the Vesdre Valley, further highlighted the vulnerability of local forest ecosystems and the need for proactive restoration. Across 6.84 hectares, 6460 trees will be planted in April 2026 season. The project brings together a balanced mix of oak, hornbeam, chestnut, rowan, hazel, larch and cedar. This diversity helps prevent the formation of single‑species stands, reduces risks linked to pests and diseases, and strengthens overall biodiversity. Before planting, the plots will undergo targeted preparation, including soil work where needed and the sanitary felling of trees affected by fungal decline to prevent further spread. Appropriate protection measures will also be installed to ensure successful establishment of the young trees. With a deep respect for local resources, the estate is managed according to sustainable and responsible forestry principles, including thoughtful thinning practices that support long‑term timber production while avoiding clearcutting. The forest will be managed under an irregular continuous cover system, ensuring permanent tree cover and encouraging natural regeneration. Furthermore, the project contributes to soil stabilization, the reinforcement of the regional ecological network, and the preservation of the scenic character of the Sohan valley, while offering habitat for local wildlife. It represents a concrete, climate‑adapted approach to responsible forestry and long‑term forest stewardship. Plantation updates: - Planting date: The trees were planted in March 2026, across three plots covering 6.84 ha. - 6460 trees planted: A diversified mix of 1489 oak, 1356 larch, 480 cedar, 889 chestnut, 353 rowan, 296 hazel and 1597 hornbeam. Older trees on the plot were preserved where possible. Numerous birds were observed during planting, including woodpeckers and buzzards over several days. - Maintenance: Monitoring of the plantation and further clearing are planned in the coming period.

The restoration project in Amblève is continuing and can be expanded to a total of 100,000 trees. Following last season’s interventions with 10,500 trees in 2023–2024 and 14,280 trees in 2024-2025, the same approach is being applied to strengthen forest resilience and diversity this season. The Amblève forest consists mainly of conifers, in particular spruce. At present, about 75% of the forest stands are spruce. Localized thinning helps prevent attacks on spruces that are weakened by competition for light. The objective is to gradually reduce the share of spruce to 50%. To achieve this, clear-cutting is avoided. Management is carried out through thinning and progressive canopy reduction, which irregularizes the stands and initiates assisted natural regeneration. Spruce requires a lot of light to grow well in its adult stage, which means little light reaches the forest floor. Natural regeneration is therefore limited, making external planting of young trees necessary. In the cleared patches, beech is planted. This species is well adapted to shaded conditions and is introduced at high density, as it tolerates competition well in its early years. This approach also protects the young trees against late frost and drought. In larger clearings, other species are introduced according to the conditions of each parcel. The long-term goal is to establish irregular stands with varied age classes, increasing resilience to unexpected events. The project takes place in a rural and agricultural region known for its extensive forest massifs and numerous trails, where hikers, riders and cyclists come to experience the rich nature around the Amblève river. Plantation updates: - Planting date: The trees were planted in December 2025, at the start of winter across four plots, covering 13 ha. - 16000 trees planted: Beech, planted in islets under the existing spruce stand - Site preparation: The ground was prepared and the plants protected where necessary. - Maintenance: Further planting, diversification and clearing are planned to continue the project.