Site code DS27

Location Belin-Béliet

Region Aquitaine

Country France

Local name La Courrège

Partner CRPF_Aquitaine

Contact

Site characteristics

Orientation: FLAT, Slope:1.0°, Soil :PODZOLS, Bedrock : eolian sands

PH :4.5,

Hydrology

The site is situated in the river basin of the Craste de la Serre stream, a small left bank tributary of the Hountine stream. The demonstration site is located at 200 m east of the stream.

Short History of the site

copyrigth IEFC network

MAIN SYLVICULTURAL OPTION DEMONSTRATED : installing and managing a broadleaved hedgerow on the margin of a maritime pine plantation. The proposed plot fits into the creation of a network of demonstration sites designed to compare current sylviculture with other adaptative techniques to global change. Conservation, reinforcement or installation of broadleaf species stands, inserted as groves or hedgerows into the pine stands matrix, have a strong functional interest. In particular, this technique enables to reduce the vulnerability of the Landes of Gascony forest to pests. Under certain conditions, these stands may have a positive effect on forest fire risk management. It is a convenient investment in the prospect of global change, that may induce an increase in sanitary attacks of existing pests and diseases as well as the possible emergence of new pathogens. As it is difficult to successfully install broadleaved stands on the sandy podzols of the Landes of Gascony, we are testing different treatments with common oak (Quercus robur), which is the most common broadleaf specie. Besides, part of the plot aims to evaluate the possibility of a spontaneous growth of those species, as well as the impact of game on this vegetation. Creation of a plantation edge: counting on the natural growth of vegetation. There is no current evaluation for this treatment, planting broadleaved species at low density. The plot had been installed some years ago to test different species but protection techniques using mulching or protection nets are still to be tested. Game damages, particularly cervidae, is a major threat for the development of broadleaf seedlings. Plantations must be protected which implies high installation costs. It is then convenient to evaluate the profitability of fencing a planted edge.STAND AND SITE DESCRIPTION Maritime pine Clear-cut, ready to be reforested.