The Luciebos project in Houthalen, which aims to replant and diversify a resilient forest, continues to develop well.

A monitoring visit shows survival rates ranging from 80% to 90% depending on the plot, with a good overall health status. A range of species has been planted in the gaps, including beech, Douglas fir, Corsican pine and oak. Game damage from roe deer and wild boar has affected 10 to 20% of plants.

Natural regeneration is picking up well, with a broad mix of broadleaf species such as beech, maple and oak coming through alongside conifers like pine and larch. These will be retained and allowed to develop naturally as long as they are not invasive. Deadwood is present on site, good for biodiversity, and several bird and insect species have been observed and heard on site and around the ponds.

You can find pictures from this monitoring visit on the project page or your personal dashboard.