We’re excited to report the successful completion of the 2024-2025 planting season in Baclain, Gouvy, where the full target of 7,650 trees was met across a surface area of 2.5 hectares.

The site presented a typical Ardennes landscape, with abundant ferns covering much of the area. Despite this dense ground vegetation, planting operations progressed smoothly from March to early April 2025, thanks to thorough site preparation, a committed team of planters, and a supervising project lead.

The mixed-species composition reflects a thoughtful design to promote both biodiversity and resilience. The final planting perfectly matched the original plan: 34% Douglas firs (2,601 trees) 33% larches (2,525 trees) 20% beeches (1,530 trees) 10% oaks (765 trees) 3% chestnut trees (229 trees)

Douglas firs and larches were mixed throughout the core plantation area, using a 2x1.7 meter spacing. Meanwhile, beeches and oaks were strategically planted along the parcel edges with a slightly denser spacing of 2x1.5 meters to foster natural shading and wind buffering. A natural latex protective treatment was applied to support early-stage resilience.

The quality of the saplings was assessed as very good, and all species were available in the correct sizes. While the ferns made initial access and visibility somewhat challenging, no major difficulties were encountered during the project!

Looking ahead, maintenance work will focus on clearing, especially to manage the extensive fern growth that could hinder young trees in their early development.