Normandy, France, October 2025
Thanks to your support, hedgerow planting projects are continuing to bring new life to the Normandy landscape! During winter 2024–2025, over 10,000 young trees and shrubs were planted by 20 project leaders, including 18 farmers and 2 private landowners, with the technical support of our partner Bois Négoce Énergie Orne (BNE).
A project deeply rooted in the region
This latest phase of planting focused on the Orne and Calvados departments, particularly around the Argentan–Flers area, where BNE has been active for several years.
These hedgerows address multiple needs: enhancing the landscape, improving living conditions, providing shelter for wildlife and livestock, and helping farms adapt to climate change.
« The hedgerow remains a defining feature of Normandy’s rural heritage, and farmers are deeply attached to it. It shapes the landscape while providing invaluable ecological services, » explains the BNE team.
A rich diversity of local species
To strengthen hedgerow resilience in the face of climate change, 27 different species were planted:
- Tall trees such as large-leaved lime and sycamore, chosen for their rapid growth and robustness;
- Intermediate species including hornbeam and field maple, complemented by more distinctive varieties like wild pear and rowan;
- and finally, shrubs such as hazel and dogwood, essential for small wildlife and local biodiversity.
A planting season shaped by the weather
Once again, winter 2024–2025 was particularly wet, making fieldwork challenging. However, thanks to the perseverance of the teams and the dedication of the planters, work continued successfully into the spring.
An initial monitoring survey shows a 92% survival rate, an excellent result despite a dry spring. Some species, such as the myrobalan plum, proved more sensitive, but replanting operations planned for next winter will make up for any losses.
What’s next?
Maintenance work (clearing and monitoring) will continue throughout the summer, ahead of a new planting phase scheduled for winter 2025–2026, when 7,000 new plants will be established with additional farmers. These hedgerows, made possible thanks to your donations, are helping to restore Normandy’s traditional bocage network and to preserve biodiversity across its countryside.
Thank you all for your commitment to a greener Normandy!
Your support enables farmers to recreate vibrant, biodiverse landscapes that carry hope for the future.
On the previous planting waves
