Isolated trees and tall fruit trees

With their many varieties, common, rare or even sometimes forgotten, isolated trees and high-stemmed fruit trees embellish the countryside, villages and gardens. Their structuring effect, their spring flowering, their fruit and their bright autumn colours offer real visual pleasure. In their branches, but also in the cavities and crevices in their bark, these trees harbour a remarkable wealth of fauna: species of insects and nesting birds, some of which are rare in the region, such as the white-fronted red tail. Mosses and lichens also contribute to the rich biodiversity.

Despite the ecological and landscape importance of these trees, many have disappeared with the advent of mechanisation and the intensification of agriculture. To remedy this decline, the Park is developing a programme to plant tall fruit trees in meadows and fields, as well as in ornamental gardens. The planting of tall fruit trees is also recommended as part of the local ecological network.

Hedges, made up of different indigenous species of trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants, also provide shelter and food for various animal species. Their foliage and flowers enrich the landscape. Their tiered arrangement also acts as a windbreak, reducing soil erosion. With the mechanisation of agriculture, many hedgerows have been uprooted. The conservation and planting of hedges is also encouraged as part of the ecological network.