Ain Department of France, October 2026
In 2024, many of you supported the project led by Aurélien and Pierre, winegrowers at La Cuverie in the Ain (department in the east of France). Their aim was to plant 1,840 trees and shrubs of over 20 species among their vines, using agroforestry and permaculture, to improve water management, regenerate the soil, and protect the vines from the effects of climate change. Today, we have some less cheerful news to share than we had hoped.
Achievements
During the winter of 2024-2025, 342 trees and shrubs of 9 different species were planted on plots at La Cuverie, namely:
- 72 hawthorns
- 63 wild pears
- 36 dogwoods
- 36 greengage plums
- 36 wayfaring trees
- 27 wild privets
- 27 maples
- 27 Judas trees
- 18 fig trees
Each tree was planted with a stake, a tree guard, anda mulch mat. The planting was carried out over two half-days by around 10 volunteers. Particular care was taken in preparing the soil, which made the work much easier. Furthermore, the saplings had been laid out across the plots beforehand to save time on the day. An encouraging result: mortality is currently estimated at just 2 to 3%.
Why the project is ending
The past few months have been very difficult for La Cuverie. An extremely poor harvest and a sharp fall in sales have weakened the estate, which went into compulsory liquidation after becoming insolvent. Since the business no longer exists, Pierre is sadly unable to continue with the planned planting.
This situation is a tough reminder of how exposed farms are today to climate and economic risks. We send Aurélien and Pierre our warmest support and thank them for their commitment to living and nature-friendly winegrowing.
What about the funds already paid?
Out of a total budget of €43,799, A Tree for You had already paid €23,737.20 for the purchase of saplings, equipment and the technical monitoring of the project. We have chosen to cover this amount in full from our own funds. In practical terms, this means that your entire donation remains available and can be reallocated to a new project, at no loss to you.
What happens to your donation?
We suggest reallocating your entire donation to a project with a similar spirit: Trees for wine and biodiversity in Corsica.
In the Patrimonio appellation, Mathieu and Antoine, winegrowers from two estates (Orenga de Gaffory and Clos San Quilico), are planting 2,600 trees and shrubs among their vines, supported by the agroforestry company ERA. Their aims: to protect the vines from drought, heat and drying winds, to enrich the soil, and to recreate habitats for the shrike, an emblematic and threatened bird on the island.
The project is progressing well: 1,295 trees of 26 species have already been planted between late November and mid-December 2025, with the help of the winegrowers, their families and friends, and pupils from Patrimonio primary school. The second planting phase will take place this winter (2026–2027) and, thanks to your support, will bring the total to 2,600 trees.
This reallocation is only a suggestion. If you would prefer otherwise, you can choose the project your donation will support from those currently seeking funding on our platform. Simply let us know by email at contact@atreeforyou.org by 1 December 2026.
Thank you for your trust and loyalty, which allow your trees to take root, even when the path changes.
