**In the Peruvian provinces of Lamas, El Dorado, and San Martín, Reforest'Action works in partnership with the CIGDES to support local farmers in setting up agroforestry systems on former abandoned grasslands. The second season of this three-year project came to an end in 2023. A year of intense work saw the planting of 600,000 trees of diverse native species for the maximum benefit of producers who are gradually reclaiming their now fertile land, where they are planting fruit and vegetables in agroforestry. However, faced with increasing drought and the threat of devastating ants, our partner had to redouble its efforts to ensure the survival of the trees. In addition to the future harvesting of tree products, alternative economic activities, such as community beekeeping, are being organized on the ground with the aim of increasing the livelihoods of communities.** 

The project supported by Reforest'Action and carried out in the field by the [Innovation and Management Center for Sustainable Development](https://www.cigdes.org/) (CIGDES) is located in three provinces of the San Martín region, at the gateway to the Peruvian Amazon: Lamas, El Dorado, and San Martín. Starting in summer 2021, the project has been running for over two years in an effort to restore vast areas of degraded pasturelands. The objective is to support and accompany landowners in the rehabilitation of their fallow land through the creation of diversified agroforestry systems. Local communities, for whom agriculture is one of the main means of subsistence, have been clearing the Amazon rainforest in recent decades in order to grow food crops and graze livestock. As a result of traditional farming practices, the land has gradually lost its original fertility until it was abandoned by farming and livestock-raising families. These former meadows have been overgrown with spontaneous vegetation and are now covered by several species of invasive ferns, which are particularly prone to fire in the summer. These phenomena prevent the natural regeneration of the forest. The project therefore aims to restore these abandoned lands by planting six to eight tree species (depending on the season) that will both encourage the future regeneration of the native rainforest and create productive, sustainable agroforestry systems for the benefit of local populations.

On the occasion of an audit carried out in August 2023, Juliet, Project Officer in Peru for Reforest'Action, was able to observe the first positive impacts of the project. [Beneficiaries from the Kichwa ethnic group,](https://www.reforestaction.com/en/magazine/northern-peru-agroforestry-revive-pachamama) involved in the first planting season, are now convinced of the need for restoration activities: their plots have been cleared of invasive ferns, the trees planted two years ago have grown well, and the return of biodiversity is already noticeable (birds, bees, insects, and macrofauna). Their enthusiasm has attracted other producers keen to support the regeneration of their land, so our partner no longer needs to promote the project among the communities, which are already motivated by the many economic and environmental benefits enjoyed by their neighbors. 

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## The second restoration season: involving local producer families in forestry activities

### Work carried out together with communities

During the 2022-2023 project season, 600,000 trees were planted - including Brazilian rubber, breadnut and mocambo tree, and even sweet pea - on over 300 hectares of degraded areas. Beneficiaries, representing 144 farming families newly enrolled in the project, were involved in the forestry work and took part in at least one of 36 training sessions covering planting techniques, plot maintenance, pest management, and more. 

Beyond planting, the ecological restoration process involves a range of varied, complex, and physical silvicultural tasks. The first step, among the most important, is to prepare the soil to receive the trees. This means removing all invasive ferns to minimize the impact of the ecological barrier they represent and to guarantee the growth and productivity of the future forest. This work is carried out by each producer on his own plots, assisted by two members of the CIGDES technical team. In the San Martín region, traditional farming organization is reflected in a variety of ways, most notably through the existence of mutual assistance days, known as "choba-choba" in the Kichwa language, and organized by the communal committee. These moments of solidarity are mainly intended to strengthen the harmony between people and natural cycles. The whole family takes part in these events, with everyone contributing according to their abilities and skills. Last season's "choba-choba" enabled landowners to benefit from collective help in completing the preparation of their land. A few days after the weeding was completed, a particular tree species, whose primary function is to prepare the soil, was planted: the pigeon pea, or Cajanus Cajan, of the fabaceae family. The aim of planting this species first is to provide shade on the plot, limit the growth of ferns and other weeds, and enrich the soil with plant biomass to create a microclimate conducive to the growth of young seedlings. 

![Luis 2023.jpg](/uploads/Luis_2023_ac4aefa1f4.jpg)

The second step is to install the multi-stage agroforestry system on the producers' plots. The task involves marking out the spatial distribution of plant units to know where to plant fruit and leguminous trees, with a view to creating the pre-established design. This activity is carried out by the CIGDES installation team with the participation of the families, who are at the same time trained in the technical operations of the conception process: taking measurements, using a contour line, aligning, orienting, picketing, and so on. Once the land is ready, the seedlings are transported from the nearest nursery to the area to be reforested, and planting work can begin. A notable improvement in the organization of this second season is the installation of 57 "flying nurseries" on beneficiaries' land, using locally sourced materials. The decentralization of seedling production means that seedlings can be delivered on time with fewer physical constraints. The location of the "flying nurseries" has been decided by the community, which takes responsibility for their maintenance and also acquires precious knowledge about the production of native Amazonian tree species.

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Tree production in a flying nursery on a farmer's land

Finally, the maintenance of the planted trees is an ongoing task that begins on the last day of planting. The CIGDES has a team of professionals dedicated to monitoring the survival of the planted trees and the success of the restoration process. Their mission is to support producers in their monitoring tasks and to train them through regular workshops on shade management, green manuring, pruning, fertilization, pest, and disease control, etc. In collaboration with Reforest'Action, the CIGDES also benefits from a digital mapping software system that enables them to monitor and trace the planted trees over time.

### Search for solutions to climatic and biotic hazards

The survival rate of the trees planted during the project's second season is about 92%. However, this high percentage reflects the continuous monitoring work of our partner, who systematically replants specimens that do not survive. While all the plots are currently in good phytosanitary condition, several challenges were experienced this year, making the restoration of the Amazonian rainforest more difficult.

The summer is getting hotter and hotter in the San Martín region, and the drought is a real challenge. Beneficiaries report how difficult it is to keep the trees alive in this context of climate change. Several measures have been put in place to mitigate the scarce rainfall, including the addition of hydrogel to the soil when the trees are planted to ensure better water retention. In addition, the production of extra seedlings in the CIGDES central nursery effectively overcame drought-related mortality. Another hazard, this time a biotic one, is the presence of devastating ants in the restoration area. To counter this scourge, the participation of some beneficiary producers, who applied biological ant repellents, was key. At the same time, the CIGDES and Reforest'Action decided to collaborate with national and international forestry institutions, such as the Spanish [National Institute for Agricultural and Food Research and Technology](https://www.inia.es/en-en/Pages/Home.aspx) (INIA) and the [Center for International Forestry Research](https://www.cifor.org/) (CIFOR). These partnerships will make it possible to gather scientific knowledge and find effective natural solutions to insect damage.

![Ant damage.jpg](/uploads/Ant_damage_01459b0a0b.jpg)
Ant damage on a young tree

## The socio-economic impact: promoting food security and alternative income generation

### Fruits and vegetables grown in agroforestry

Besides its environmental impact, the project includes a significant social component. Expected socio-economic benefits include improved food security for producer families. The agroforestry systems created as part of the project are made up of various productive species, including fruit trees, beans, and peas. These food products will be harvested by the landowners and used for personal consumption or sold. Another benefit of restoring the land by integrating trees is that it makes the soil cultivable and fertile again. Some farming families have already started growing fruit and vegetables (bananas, beans, manioc, etc.), which are the basis of their diet, in the shade of the trees planted in 2021.

![Adoniran 2023.jpg](/uploads/Adoniran_2023_62fa68955f.jpg)

### Creation of alternative value chains

In the long term, some tree products will help to revive a local, sustainable economy. Indeed, the species planted in agroforestry will provide high-value raw materials, such as latex produced from rubber tree bark, Mayan walnut seeds, and majambo pods, which contain white, almond-flavored beans. Another economic activity that our partner is about to initiate is beekeeping. Several tree species can already produce flowers, and the honey produced can easily be sold on local markets. Awareness-raising sessions on the use of natural inputs will be organized among producers to ensure the survival of the bees. While it is still too early to witness the results, the creation of these alternative value chains will have many positive impacts, including local job creation.

![Bénéficiaires 23.jpg](/uploads/Beneficiaires_23_1ebd7140e2.jpg)

### Community capacity building

As the communities are at the very heart of the project's implementation and success, their empowerment represents a major focus. Throughout the year, operational workshops were organized by our partner, not only to train participants but also to gather their expectations and feedback. Since the start of activities, communities have been grouped into 20 community co-management committees in the three provinces where the project is being implemented. This structure ensures the smooth running of operations, as well as the organization of regular assemblies and "choba-choba" days and the monitoring of plantings. This participatory approach also promotes the consolidation and sustainability of ecological restoration.

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Land restoration and agroforestry systems implementation in the region of San Martín, Peru

**In south-west China, in the mountainous province of Guizhou, Reforest'Action and Hennessy are carrying out a project to restore forest ecosystems on degraded land, for the benefit of the villagers living nearby. In addition to restoring the area's ecological properties, the project is generating a real socio-economic impact by helping to improve the livelihoods of rural and traditional populations. Since spring 2022, more than 867,000 trees of diverse species have been planted to support the regeneration of a forest ecosystem in an area subject to rocky desertification. This is one of two projects financed in China by Maison Hennessy, Reforest'Action's first contributor since 2020, as part of its “Forest Destination program”.** 

![DSC06247_yk.jpg](/uploads/DSC_06247_yk_8e765fd694.jpg)

China's history has left its mark on the Guizhou landscape, or "precious land" in Chinese. Since 1958, the Great Leap Forward under Maoism, accompanied by a massive wave of migration, led to massive deforestation in favor of agricultural production and mining. In the 1980s, Deng Xiaoping's economic reforms only accelerated the clearing of new land and the impoverishment of the soil. Demographically, Guizhou is one of China's most diverse provinces, comprising many different ethnic groups, but it is also one of the country's poorest regions. Indeed, its extremely rocky and karst topography hinders economic development and makes agricultural production more difficult.

Despite the province's recent economic development, due in particular to the construction of a modern transport network and the growth of tourism, the restoration of forest ecosystems remains a top priority for the Chinese government. The aim is both to protect existing forests and to gradually reconvert agricultural land to forest while planting trees on bare land. The reforestation project, supported by Reforest'Action and Hennessy and carried out in the field by the Guangxi Chongzuo Linda Forestry company, is therefore perfectly aligned with China's national strategy.

## Reforesting mountains to combat rock desertification

The project is located in the Qinglong district of Guizhou province, within a natural site subject to rock desertification. This phenomenon characterizes the processes that transform a karst area into a rocky landscape almost devoid of soil and vegetation*. China is one of the countries suffering most from desertification in the world, with 2.61 million km2 impacted**, i.e. 27%, of the country's total surface area. The original forest that used to cover the project area disappeared many years ago, and the fragile soil is now covered by a few naturally-growing grasses and shrubs and is highly exposed to erosion. On this depleted soil, natural regeneration is not an option, and neither the communities nor the local institutions have sufficient funds to restore their land.

*Earth-Science Reviews, Volume 132, May 2014, Pages 1-12
**Estimation of the costs of desertification in China: a critical review, 2016

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### A three-fold objective

The project's objectives, to be implemented over a three-year period (2021-2024), focus on three main pillars.

**1 - Restoring degraded ecosystems**
The project aims to create a forest on communal land that is currently bare by planting a mix of five species native to the region. The existing vegetation, mainly grasses and shrubs, will be preserved as much as possible. In the long term, the planted trees will limit erosion and combat rock desertification, helping to regenerate the soil's ecological properties. The diversity of the species chosen will strengthen the area's resilience in the face of potential climatic or biological hazards. Last but not least, the newly-grown forest will store approximately 100,000 tonnes of CO2 equivalent over a 30-year period.

**2 - Fostering native biodiversity**
The presence of trees, including a fruit species, will contribute to the development of habitats for the region's flora and fauna, which are essential to the ecosystem's long-term stability and adaptability. The region's remote, steep slopes have encouraged the emergence of numerous endemic species of birds, reptiles, and snakes, which will benefit from the habitat extension measures. Some specimens have already been spotted near the project’s planting sites.

**3 - Improving the villagers' socio-economic conditions**
In this rural area, opportunities for villagers to raise their standard of living are limited. All forestry work under the project will be carried out by local communities, mobilized in the field by our partner. In the years to come, the potential for harvesting fruit from the trees will also represent an interesting economic benefit for the population.

![DSC06656_yk.jpg](/uploads/DSC_06656_yk_d3ca8105c0.jpg)

### Review of the project's activities

Carried out manually by recruited villagers, the plantings began at the end of March 2022, with the onset of the rainy season, and were completed in June of the same year. A total of 571,641 trees were planted on 192 hectares during this first season. The second year of the project began in April 2023 and ended in December of the same year. The latest assessment carried out by our partner at the end of September 2023 showed that over 295,000 seedlings had already been planted, representing 54% of the 2022-2023 target.

With regard to the species mix, two species (Chinese fir and cypress) were planted in 2022 in equal proportions. Purchased from an external nursery, our partner experienced difficulties in obtaining seedlings for the other three species that were to be planted. To overcome this availability problem and meet the needs of the next two years, a nursery dedicated to the project was subsequently created. In 2023, seedlings of Chinese fir, cypress, honey locust, toona sinensis, and alder were produced by the Linda Forestry company team and planted on site. In the third quarter of 2023, to support the development of the project, the local government allowed our partner to set up its nursery in an area with a larger surface area, a better water supply, and more convenient transport conditions.

![Audit23.jpg](/uploads/Audit23_2cfd6f682c.jpg)
 
**The last field audit carried out by Reforest'Action in March 2023 made it possible to assess the survival rate of trees planted in 2022, which was 93.7%. The average tree height measured was 41.7 centimeters. As the Chinese fir and cypress are native species adapted to the local environment, they were found to be in good health. To maximize results, the Linda Forestry company systematically replaces trees that fail to survive by replanting them in the following planting seasons. However, climatic conditions in 2023 were not so favorable: rainfall was significantly lower than in 2022. A second field audit will be carried out by Reforest'Action in April 2024.** 

## Maximizing socio-economic impact to promote human well-being

Promoting human well-being is fundamental to the projects supported by Maison Hennessy. In China's Guizhou province, which struggles with rural poverty exacerbated by historical environmental degradation, the project developed by Reforest'Action directly benefits the livelihoods of ethnic minorities through the generation of additional income. The socio-economic impact is therefore a major pillar of our joint approach in China and will be monitored over the long term.

### Employment and income opportunities

Agriculture is the main economic driver in the province. That's why the people living in the villages of Zhebu, the first to be affected by the project, depend entirely on farming as a source of income. With the soil depletion, agricultural productivity is reduced, as are the villagers' means of subsistence. In 2022, the project provided employment opportunities for 324 villagers. Planters, nursery workers, vehicle drivers, and forest rangers were all recruited to carry out the restoration activities under the supervision of the Linda Forestry company. These direct beneficiaries, including 80% of women, earned money at the end of their contribution, enabling them to provide for their families. Besides, an estimated 7,696 people (workers' families and other villagers) indirectly benefited from the first wave of planting. The planted trees are monitored and maintained by ten forest rangers employed by our partner. Their role is to patrol the planting area on a daily basis to prevent potential degradation risks (fires, animals grazing, parasites, or diseases) and to take immediate action to minimize losses. They are also responsible for site maintenance (weeding, etc.). Over the three years of the project, taking all activities into account, up to 55,000 man-days of work will be required, for the benefit of villagers who wish to get involved.

In parallel, the project will contribute to the local economy by opening the way to tree product commercialization. Known as "zao jia", the Chinese honey locust is one of the fifty fundamental plants used in traditional Chinese pharmacopoeia. Its fruits, which are long, bean-like pods, and its thorns are used in the manufacture of cosmetics and medicinal products, but they can also be used to make paper. The leaves of the toona sinensis, another tree planted as part of the project, are used in traditional Chinese cooking. Once mature, the fruit or leaves of these trees will be harvested and sold by the communities, who will split the earnings, to companies that will process them. The villagers concerned could generate around $150,000 a year in additional income from the marketing of forest products.

![Planting 2.JPG](/uploads/Planting_2_a255d7f68b.JPG)

### Social commitment at the core of our activities

In order to facilitate and strengthen community participation in the project, our partner has implemented a comprehensive engagement process: upstream meetings introducing the project and its benefits to involve villagers, tree-planting training to initiate the public, regular updates on the project's achievements to ensure constant mobilization, etc. These initiatives reflect the importance of working hand in hand with local people, who are both the driving force and the beneficiaries of this restoration program. Once recruited, most of the workers were involved in the project's design: through community meetings, they had the opportunity to give their opinions and discuss future activities. In addition, from March to April 2022, prior to the planting phase, 280 beneficiaries took part in a half-day training session: technical requirements, seedling management, safety, and waste management were all on the agenda.

During the last audit, Reforest'Action gathered feedback from beneficiaries by conducting several interviews. All respondents were happy to be able to contribute to activities in the field and were motivated by the idea of ensuring the proper growth of trees. They understand the importance of trees in the fight against rocky desertification. They also mentioned the much-needed income they receive from the project. In addition, a feedback mechanism has been set up for participants to make any comments and/or suggestions regarding the project's course. This mechanism is fundamental to ensuring optimal implementation and monitoring of the project and is managed both by village representatives and the villagers' committee and by the Linda Forestry company.

![DSC06012_yk.jpg](/uploads/DSC_06012_yk_50c61793a8.jpg)

**Maison Hennessy has come to appreciate the central role of forest ecosystems in ensuring a sustainable future for future generations. In 2020, the company entered into a 10-year partnership with Reforest'Action. This long-term commitment enables the implementation of an ambitious, long-term program to contribute to the regeneration of 50,000 hectares of forest worldwide. The project to restore degraded mountain ecosystems in Guizhou province illustrates the Maison's commitment to promoting the ecosystem services provided by forests for the benefit of the local populations that depend on them.** 

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China: in the precious land of Guizhou, Maison Hennessy contributes to the fight against rocky desertification through reforestation

**In the heart of Mount Kenya National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1997, the third season of the project developed by Reforest'Action, and supported by Maison Hennessy for the past two years, was completed at the end of 2022. Hennessy has been a partner of Reforest'Action since 2020, funding numerous local initiatives over the long term. Through its multidimensional scope, this project aimed at restoring forest and agricultural ecosystems in Kenya is a concrete illustration of our shared regenerative, impact-oriented approach. Thanks to two waves of planting, in spring and autumn, the year 2022 made it possible to plant 250,000 trees on 500 hectares of land divided between the project's various activities.** 

![Kenya1.jpeg](/uploads/Kenya1_2dc4dd7b3e.jpeg)

In recent years, drought has hit East Africa particularly hard, including Kenya: rainfall has been below average for five consecutive rainy seasons. By January 2023, it was estimated that more than 20 million people were facing acute food insecurity in the region, mainly as a result of drought*. In this rapidly changing socio-climatic context, the project led by the local association Trees for Kenya focuses on restoring Mount Kenya's natural ecosystem and improving the food security of the people who live in this area. 

*World Meteorological Organization (WMO), _State of the Global Climate report,_ 2022.

## The project's objectives: a three-fold approach

The plots targeted by the project's third season are located in three counties in eastern Kenya: Kirinyaga, Embu and Tharaka Nithi. The typology of ecosystems covered and the actions implemented vary according to altitude, rainfall regime and soil quality. In the highlands, the project is helping to restore the forest of [Mount Kenya National Park,](https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/800/) which is essential to the proper functioning of the water cycle. Downstream, in the middle and lowlands cultivated with tea and coffee plantations, the creation of agroforestry garden forests aims to support the socio-economic development of farming communities. In addition to forestry work, the project also raises awareness among farming communities about the many benefits of planting trees on their land. Thirdly, by distributing trees to schools in the area, the project includes an educational dimension designed to involve the younger generation. Let's take a look at the progress made by this multi-faceted project. 

![Kenya0 Project Map.jpg](/uploads/Kenya0_Project_Map_e3075b3aaf.jpg)

## Mount Kenya forest restoration: promoting the regeneration of a crucial ecosystem

The first part of the project involves reforesting 60 hectares of degraded forest land which, although protected, is unable to regenerate on its own. More than 300,000 people - including members of the Masai and Kikuyu ethnic groups - depend on the Mount Kenya forest for their daily livelihoods: it provides them with water, fruits, and medicinal plants. As a result of deforestation for agriculture and charcoal production, the drastic reduction in the region's forest cover has led to a change in local weather patterns, with rainfall becoming more irregular and scarcer, causing the rivers originating from Mount Kenya to dry up and no longer flow sufficiently to irrigate crops.

### Achievements: 65,000 trees planted in the Njukiini forest

In 2022, the project enabled the creation of three conservation sites in the Njukiini forest. The latter lies at the foot of Mount Kenya, between a dried-out wetland and a forest managed by the Kenya Forest Service for commercial purposes. The selected sites are made up of a few scattered trees and therefore have regeneration potential. Work began with the clearing of Lantana Camara, an invasive shrub species that was preventing native vegetation from developing and drawing on the water table, followed by the planting of a diverse range of native species, including Prunus Africana and Podocarpus. A total of 65,000 trees were planted, with the aim of restoring the degraded forest and initiating its future regeneration.  

The forestry work was carried out by the Community Conservation Association (CFA), a group of 50 casual workers from local communities, mostly young people and about half of them being women. More broadly, local people are involved in all restoration processes: they participate in the production of seedlings in twelve community nurseries set up as part of the project, as well as in soil preparation through the removal of brush and invasive species, and in the long-term maintenance of the planted trees. 

![Kenya3©TonyTei-2022.jpg](/uploads/Kenya3_Tony_Tei_2022_67e0e9487e.jpg)

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**At the end of 2022, Reforest'Action's field audit made it possible to assess the survival rate of the trees planted on the three conservation sites during the previous spring. Despite very limited water resources due to chronic drought, the shade provided by the existing trees and the high moisture level of the forest soil ensured the survival of 74% of the planted trees.**

### Expected impacts: increased water resources and biodiversity

The porosity created by the organic activity of the forest soil will reduce water runoff, encourage its infiltration into the soil and enable groundwater to be recharged. As a cornerstone of the water cycle, the forest will also help regulate the local climate, increasing the frequency of rainfall and, ultimately, the volume of water flowing into the surrounding rivers. In the long term, restored forests will therefore play an important role in the water resources available to the farming population. Let's not forget that 75%* of the world's fresh water for human and environmental needs comes from forest and mountain ecosystems. At the same time, biodiversity will increase as the forest grows, being home to elephants, monkeys, buffalo, and gazelles’ populations.

*FAO, IUFRO and USDA. 2022. _A guide to forest-water management. FAO Forestry Paper_ No. 185. Rome.

## Garden forests: improving food security among farming communities

The second part of the project aims to install agroforestry systems within the tea, coffee, macadamia, maize, bean, sweet potato and banana crops that cover the lower slopes of Mount Kenya. Most farmers in the region own one or two hectares of land at most, and use 75% of it for cash crop production. Almost all households keep livestock or goats on the remaining 25%, on which the family home is also located. While for 98% of them, agriculture is the sole source of income, local farmers are facing sharply reduced crop yields as a result of severe drought.

### Achievements: 165,000 trees planted on 434 farmers' land

In 2022, more than 430 new beneficiaries were given trees. They were recruited by a "leading farmers" team made up of local farmers who act as a link between Trees for Kenya's and the farming communities. Agroforestry species such as calliandra, markhamia and pink cedar were planted as hedges around the crops, meanwhile fruit trees were spread throughout the plots. Fruit trees are particularly valuable to farmers, as they will produce avocados, tree tomatoes, mangoes and oranges. Between January and December 2022, 165,000 trees were planted to create garden forests in the low and midlands of Mount Kenya.

Before each wave of planting, training and awareness-raising sessions were organized for farmers, including demonstrations of how to use the planting and monitoring equipment (spades, secateurs, tape and calipers to measure tree height and diameter, etc.). Beneficiaries were also trained in the manufacturing of plant-based organic fertilizers and pesticides, and made aware of the importance of conserving trees on their plots. 

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**The survival rate of trees planted in agroforestry in the spring of 2022 was evaluated at 65% by the end-of-year audit. The main challenge here relates to the lack of available water to irrigate the planted trees, causing them to dry out. It should be noted that trees affected by drought are systematically replaced during the next planting. A new field audit will be conducted by the beginning of 2024 in order to monitor the second wave of plantings that took place in autumn 2022.**  
 
During the audit, the testimonies of several beneficiaries were collected. All interviewees seemed now aware of the challenges raised by climate change and the importance of forest ecosystems. They thanked the support provided by the project, without which they would not have had the resources required to plant trees. Some of them revealed that the project not only helped them financially, but also socially, by enabling them to emerge from isolation.

### Expected impacts: strengthened food security for communities

The primary objective of agroforestry development on Mount Kenya is to protect and sustain the crops grown by local populations. Trees will provide shade for understorey plantations while acting as windbreaks, thus combating wind erosion. In addition, trees will have numerous benefits for degraded agricultural soils: they will promote nitrogen fixation and the restitution of organic matter through the creation of litter. It has been proven that farmers implementing agroforestry practices in East Africa have seen their yields increase by 100% compared to farmers using non-regenerative practices*. In the longer term, the return of rivers and rainfall, made possible by the restoration of Mount Kenya's forests, will facilitate crop irrigation and fertility.

From an economic point of view, the planted trees will be a source of fodder for livestock, of natural fertilizer for crops and of firewood for the local population. Through their sustainable management, they will thus prevent the harvesting of trees in the still intact primary forest. Furthermore, the fruit trees will help to boost the local population's livelihoods and to generate additional income through the sale of the fruits. Tea and coffee produced in shaded agroforestry systems, considered to be of better quality, will open the way to a new and more marketable value chain. Finally, awareness-raising sessions for farmers help prevent future deforestation while promoting the need to include and preserve trees as an integral component of their agriculture.

*Africa Regenerative Agriculture Study Group, _Regenerative Agriculture: An opportunity for businesses and society to restore degraded land in Africa,_ 2021.

![Kenya8©TonyTei-2022.jpg](/uploads/Kenya8_Tony_Tei_2022_89038ba919.jpg)
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Through its [Forest Destination program,](https://www.reforestaction.com/en/magazine/hennessy-forest-destination) Maison Hennessy is committed to promoting the regeneration of 50,000 hectares of forest in France and around the world by 2030, as a means of protecting biodiversity, enhancing the water cycle and responding to the climate emergency. This holistic project developed on the lands of Mount Kenya bears witness to the strong ambition shared by Reforest'Action and Hennessy: to preserve and restore forest ecosystems on a large scale.

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Maison Hennessy's commitment to restoring the land of Mount Kenya: a multi-faceted project

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Érable champêtre

Prunellier

Cornouiller sanguin

Églantier

Noisetier commun

Sureau noir

Fusain d'Europe

Frêne commun

Viorne obier

Troene commun

Viorne Lantane

Aubépine

Charme commun

Saule Marsault

Chêne sessile (rouvre)

Chêne pédonculé

Aulne à feuilles en cœur

Dans le département du Rhône, les haies bocagères présentes sur les parcelles concernées vont être restaurées et de nouvelles vont être plantées. Ces haies serviront essentielles à la préservation de la biodiversité environnante. En effet, la protection de la biodiversité, tant sur les sites protégés pour leur intérêt écologique que sur les parcelles agricoles, est un enjeu de taille au sein de ce département. Le projet prévoit donc de planter diverses essences de feuillus. Cette démarche permettra de restaurer les corridors écologiques, milieux qui relient les différents habitats naturels des espèces locales, une démarche qui participera ainsi à la préservation de la biodiversité. De plus, ces haies situées en zone péri-urbaine auront un avantage pédagogique car elles sensibiliseront les riverains à l’intérêt écologique des haies. Ce projet compte 3000 arbres plantés qui permettront à terme de stocker du carbone, participant ainsi à la lutte contre le dérèglement climatique.

Contributes to the mitigation of the greenhouse effect and influences precipitation patterns and the local microclimate.

Preservation of local biodiversity by providing suitable habitats and resources.

Influences the quality and integrity of the soil-water system, and the cycling of water and nutrients.

Supports human well-being, by providing resources, income, education, and supporting recreation and heritage.

In the Rhône department, the hedgerows on the plots concerned will be restored and new ones planted. These hedgerows will serve primarily to preserve the surrounding biodiversity. Indeed, the protection of biodiversity, both on sites protected for their ecological interest and on agricultural plots, is a major issue in this department. The project therefore involves planting a variety of deciduous species. This will help restore ecological corridors, which link the various natural habitats of local species, and thus contribute to the preservation of biodiversity. In addition, these hedges, located in a peri-urban area, will have an educational benefit, as they will raise awareness among local residents of the ecological value of hedges. The project includes the planting of 3,000 trees, which will ultimately store carbon and help combat climate change.

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Palmier-dattier

Olivier d'Europe

Avocatier

Citronnier

Oranger

Caroubier

Cerisier

Pêcher

Grenadier

Cognassier

Amandier

Abricotier

Mandarinier

Néflier

Créer de véritables forêts nourricières afin de favoriser le développement de filières économiques: par l’intermédiaire de coopératives locales: grâce à la culture de fruits biologiques.- Sensibilisation des populations locales à la préservation des arbres et aux bénéfices qu'ils peuvent apporter à l'agriculture - Productions d'aliments biologiques - Protection de cultures vivrières - Formation des populations locales à l'agroécologie

NO_POVERTY

ZERO_HUNGER

GOOD_HEALTH_AND_WELL_BEING

DECENT_WORK_AND_ECONOMIC_GROWTH

SUSTAINABLE_CITIES_AND_COMMUNITIES

RESPONSIBLE_CONSUMPTION_AND_PRODUCTION

CLIMATE_ACTION

LIFE_ON_LAND

PARTNERSHIP_FOR_THE_GOALS

Supports human well-being, by providing resources, income, education, empowerment, and supporting culture and spirituality.

In rural areas of Morocco, the challenges of economic development go hand in hand with the implementation of collective, sustainable agricultural solutions. Permaculture and agroforestry are virtuous practices that provide a real boost to self-sufficiency, food security and the incomes of local communities. They create a nourishing forest and combat desertification.

In rural areas of Morocco, Reforest'Action is developing agroforestry projects in villages throughout the country, thanks to its local partner Ibn Al Baytar. The aim is to support economic development and the implementation of collective, sustainable agricultural solutions. In addition to developing agroforestry and organic production among farmers, the project also has an educational aim, with the emphasis on raising awareness of the benefits of trees among local populations.

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Tilleul

Merisier

Châtaignier

Alisier torminal

Situé au cœur du Parc Naturel du Gatinais, ce vaste massif forestier est composé de feuillus, notamment de chênes en taillie ou taillie sous futaie. Malheureusement, les peuplements présents sur les 3 parcelles concernées sont relativement pauvres en raison d’une gestion inappropriée, de la présence d’une population excédentaire de gibier et d’une gestion forestière dépassée (basée sur des rotations de coupes à blanc par blocs). L’objectif aujourd’hui est de modifier le mode de gestion du massif et de rétablir l’équilibre et la diversité du peuplement. Le projet prévoit donc de conserver les semenciers présents, de conduire des dépressages et dégagements des semis et d’enrichir le peuplement d’essences diverses indigènes pour accélerer la régénération des peuplements. Cette démarche permettra d’enrichir les services écosystémiques du massif mais également d’augmenter sa capacité de production de bois.

Located in the heart of the Gatinais Nature Park, this vast forest is made up of deciduous trees, in particular coppiced oak. Unfortunately, the stands on the 3 parcels concerned are relatively poor due to inappropriate management, the presence of an excess game population and outdated forest management (based on block clear-cutting rotations). The aim today is to change the way the massif is managed and restore the balance and diversity of the stand. The project therefore involves conserving existing seed trees, carrying out depressurization and seedling removal, and enriching the stand with a variety of native species to accelerate regeneration. This approach will not only enrich the ecosystem services of the massif, but also increase its wood production capacity.

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Érable sycomore

Hêtre commun

Douglas

Mélèze d'Europe

Dans la municipalité de Dahnen, située dans le land de Rhénanie-Palatinat en Allemagne, la parcelle forestière concernée doit faire l’objet d’un reboisement. En effet, l’ancien peuplement monospécifique composé d’épicéas, a été victime d’une invasion de scolytes. Ces insectes xylophages qui fait dépérir les arbres pouvant causer à terme le dépérissement des spécimens touchés. Pour remédier à cette situation et redynamiser le peuplement, la plantation d’essences feuillues indigènes, adaptées au climat de la station, doivent être plantées. Une diversification des essences qui augmentera la résilience du massif face à d’éventuels aléas climatiques ou biologiques. Sur le long terme, la reconstitution de ce peuplement permettra à la biodiversité de réinvestir le massif ainsi qu’aux arbres de stocker du carbone, luttant ainsi contre le réchauffement climatique. Enfin, les arbres plantés assureront une continuité forestière et participeront à la formation d’un patrimoine forestier résilient.

CLEAN_WATER_AND_SANITATION

In the municipality of Dahnen, in the German state of Rhineland-Palatinate, the forest plot in question is to be reforested. The former monospecific spruce stand had fallen victim to an invasion of bark beetles. These xylophagous insects, which cause trees to wither, can eventually lead to the death of affected specimens. To remedy this situation and revitalize the stand, native deciduous species adapted to the site's climate need to be planted. This diversification of species will increase the massif's resilience in the face of possible climatic or biological hazards. In the long term, the reconstitution of this stand will enable biodiversity to return to the massif, and the trees to store carbon, thereby combating global warming. Finally, the trees planted will ensure forest continuity and contribute to the creation of a resilient forest heritage.

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Epicéa commun

Ce projet est situé dans la région Wallonne en Belgique. Plus précisément dans la ville de Florenville. Sur cette ancienne monoculture, 90 % du peuplement a été détruit par le scolyte. Malheureusement, ce phénomène n’est pas rare au sein des cultures monospécifiques qui peinent à se défendre contre les attaques d’insectes. Pour restaurer et fortifier le peuplement, des essences diverses ont été plantées après récolte des arbres scolytés. Un mélange de résineux et de feuillus a été sélectionné pour redonner vie à un massif mélangé, résilient, capable de se défendre contre les aléas naturels. Cette démarche a ainsi permis de reconstituer le couvert forestier sur la zone et de fournir des habitats à la biodiversité locale. Sur la durée, les arbres participeront à la lutte contre le réchauffement climatique en stockant du carbone.

This project is located in the Walloon region of Belgium, more precisely in the town of Florenville. In this former monoculture, 90% of the stand was destroyed by the bark beetle. Unfortunately, this phenomenon is not uncommon in monospecific crops, which have difficulty defending themselves against insect attack. To restore and strengthen the stand, a variety of tree species were planted after the trees attacked by the pests had been harvested. A mix of coniferous and deciduous trees was selected to give new life to a mixed, resilient forest capable of defending itself against natural hazards. In this way, the forest cover was restored to the area, providing habitats for local biodiversity. In the long term, the trees will help combat global warming by storing carbon.

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Sorbier des oiseleurs

Aubépine petites feuilles

Bouleau commun

Les parcelles concernées sont situées sur une colline, sur la frontière nord du Parc National des North York Moors, tout près de la petite ville de Great Ayton. La colline, du Yorkshire et du Nord-Est de l’Angleterre, est un élément du paysage apprécié des riverains et des randonneurs. Par le passé, le déficit d’entretien de la parcelle visée par le projet a conduit à son dépérissement prématuré. En 2015, des travaux ont été entrepris pour renouveler le peuplement et favoriser la croissance d’une forêt indigène. Des feuillus seront ainsi introduits pour créer un terrain foisonnant, favorable à la biodiversité. Les avantages du projet seront multiples. Ainsi diversifié, le massif sera plus à même de résister aux aléas climatiques comme biologiques. Les arbres plantés contribueront à leur tour à stocker du carbone et ainsi à freiner le réchauffement climatique. La mise en œuvre de ce projet participera à la continuité et à la préservation du couvert forestier sur cette zone. 

The plots in question are located on a hill on the northern boundary of the North York Moors National Park, close to the small town of Great Ayton. The hill, part of Yorkshire and North-East England, is a popular landscape feature for local residents and walkers. In the past, the lack of maintenance of the plot in question has led to its premature decline. In 2015, work was undertaken to renew the stand and encourage the growth of a native forest. Deciduous trees will be introduced to create a lush, biodiversity-friendly landscape. The benefits of this project will be manifold. Diversified in this way, the forest will be better able to withstand climatic and biological hazards. The trees planted will in turn help to store carbon and thus slow down global warming. The implementation of this project will contribute to the continuity and preservation of the forest cover in this area.

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Érable plane

Au nord du Luxembourg, cette parcelle forestière de 3,46 hectares a été victime d’une attaque de scolytes. À l’origine, le massif était monospécifique. C’est ce qui explique l’invasion d’insectes dont a été victime cette forêt Luxembourgeoise, ce type de peuplement résistant souvent mal aux attaques biologiques comme aux aléas climatiques. Les scolytes sont des insectes xylophages qui provoque le dépérissement des spécimens touchés. À Knaphoscheid, les scolytes ont causé de nombreux dégâts. Pour cette raison, le projet prévoit de reboiser le massif grâce à diverses essences de feuillus locaux et quelques résineux. Cette initiative favorisera la présence d’une biodiversité variée au sein de la parcelle. De plus, la démarche rendra la forêt plus résiliente pour faire face à d’éventuelles nouvelles attaques d’insectes. A terme, les arbres assureront une continuité forestière sur la zone et participeront à la formation d’un patrimoine forestier résilient.

In the north of Luxembourg, this 3.46-hectare forest plot fell victim to bark beetle attack. Originally, the forest was monospecific. This explains why the Luxembourg forest was invaded by bark beetles, as this type of stand is often poorly resistant to biological attacks and climatic hazards. Bark beetles are xylophagous insects which cause affected specimens to die back. In Knaphoscheid, bark beetles have caused extensive damage. For this reason, the project plans to reforest the massif with a variety of local deciduous species and a few conifers. This initiative will promote the presence of a varied biodiversity within the plot. It will also make the forest more resilient to future insect attacks. Ultimately, the trees will ensure forest continuity in the area and contribute to the creation of a resilient forest heritage.

Bénéfices estimés des arbres plantés ou préservés

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