La Chapelle-Saint-Rémy forest

Located in the north-east of Le Mans in France, this forest covers more than 13 hectares in an agricultural and forest environment.
Following a clear-cutting operation initiated before our purchase, we decided to amend the soil by applying experimental biochar before reforesting. The aim is to measure the effect of biochar on the growth of saplings and soil fertility. The reforestation of the clear-cut was carried out with maritime pine, Douglas fir and birch, the best adapted species to the sandy soils of this forest site. The silvicultural itineraries we have chosen are based on irregular forestry. In addition, a plot of laricio pines was also preserved.

Mature stands were harvested in early 2021. Mulching for reforestation was carried out at the end of the same year. The preparatory work and planting took place in the first quarter of 2022 following the experimental application of biochar.
The entire area of this property has been brought back into production and we can consider the installation of the new stands to be successful, although the birches suffered from the heat more than the pines. The plantations will be monitored and maintained manually to allow them to free themselves from competing vegetation. A Douglas fir fill planting is already planned as well as an application of Trico.

An inventory of fauna and flora is planned and ornithological surveys have enabled us to determine the installation of 13 nesting boxes for various bird species, including the common kestrel and the tawny owl. In addition, a "Wildlife Estates" label is in progress.