After a fire, securing forests and preparing for their future are major challenges. In Diois, Drôme, the teams from the ONF (National Forestry Office) are working on the ground with trees affected by the fire. Risks of falling trees, branches, or blocks persist due to weakened roots, which may justify the temporary closure of certain areas.
To determine the fate of each tree, foresters analyze the damage and assess their chances of survival. This step, called marking (martelage), identifies trees likely to regrow and those that need to be harvested. Recovered wood can be used for making pallets or supplying local heating plants. Some trees and deadwood are also left in place to support biodiversity and limit soil erosion.
Regarding forest regeneration, planting is not systematic. Foresters first observe natural regeneration before considering any interventions.
This article details the actions and choices made by foresters to secure sites and support the forest's recovery after a fire.
