In this project in Okegem, we undertake an afforestation of a former agricultural plot of 3.22 hectares. We will plant at least 5000 trees during the season of 2024-2025. The tree species that will be used in the plantation include Sycamore maple, black alder, European hornbeam, Cornelian cherry, common dogwood, hazel, hawthorn, spindle, European beech, European ash, wild cherry, pedunculate oak, white willow, small-leaved lime, and large-leaved lime. This new forest will enhance the water cycle, soil protection, biodiversity protection and conservation, and carbon sequestration. In the case of afforestation of agricultural land, the reduction in inputs and the absence of heavy tillage can also be noted. In the coming years, the project can be extended.

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 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.

Located near Urasar, in Lori province, the site spans 360 hectares at elevations ranging from 1,700 to 2,000 meters. With predominantly northern exposure and excellent soil quality, the site is ideally suited for establishing a rich, diverse forest. Our technical partner is aiming to plant 529,617 trees in this area, drawing on 13 species of broadleaf trees, including walnut, oak, wild apple, maple, and pine, alongside several native shrubs. Planting started in spring 2023. Trees contributed by Go Forest members during 2022, 2023, and 2024 are all dedicated to this site. The site has excellent climatic and soil conditions to grow a forest. This project also benefits 140 families in the surrounding area. The first monitoring round, in summer 2023, showed an impressive survival rate of over 80 percent, with the trees planted in spring 2023 doing great. By 2024, many trees had already shown remarkable growth, thriving in conditions that provide an excellent foundation for a resilient new forest.