Let’s save the Chantilly Forest together

The future of the forest: everyone’s business

In 2018, when the massive decline of oak trees became evident, we decided not to hide the seriousness of the situation and to invite anyone who wanted to join our fight to preserve and build a living forest at the end of the century and beyond, drawing on science and collective financial and human resources, both public and private.

A collective of actors

The collective that has been set up brings together the owner, ONF foresters, research institutes coordinated by INRAE, universities, the local Regional Nature Park, the National Botanical Conservatory of Bailleul, hunters, volunteer citizens, and local associations. Everyone works together in the field: the volunteers’ ability to take action is essential.

Observe the trees

Monitoring the evolution of trees and forests is important for detecting decline as early as possible and understanding how trees react to stress. To do this, methods are used to describe trees and plots, some of which were developed in Chantilly. These observations involve numerous volunteers working alongside local foresters and scientists.

Take samples

One explanation for the faster decline of trees in Chantilly than elsewhere is probably the poor water retention capacity of the soil. To better understand the relationships between soil, trees, climate, and biodiversity, including plant genetic heritage, a large-scale sampling campaign was conducted between 2021 and 2025.

Planting and maintenance

We cannot wait for the results of studies before taking action. We have already begun testing the introduction of trees from warmer southern regions. This is known as assisted migration. We have also changed planting methods, ensuring that the soil is always kept in the shade, and we are combating invasive alien plants. Here again, volunteers play an essential role.

Minutes of the public meeting of February 4, 2023, of the collective

Participate in actions to protect the forest of the Château de Chantilly

Anyone can join the collective and participate, according to their interests, in nature projects, scientific monitoring, or heritage inventories. The activities on offer can be viewed online in the volunteer program.

To register, simply join the PNR mailing list via the Park’s website: you will receive calls for volunteers and will be free to choose the assignments that interest you.

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For all press inquiries, please contact: chateaudechantilly@alambret.com