The Ravine of the Genius experienced the war of 14-18. But it is today because of the bark beetle that he is bruised. The development of the insect had devastating effects on the spruces of this memorial site around Verdun (Meuse). Nearly 232 ha had to be razed, indirect victims of global warming. Under the impetus of the association Argonne Meuse Patrimoine, the forest could, however, in the years to come, regain its luster.
Supported by the Heritage Foundation, the association has launched a call for projects to participate in the financing of the reforestation of the Ravine du génie. "When we talk about war, we always have images of battlefields, ossuaries... The Genius Ravine is a very special place because it was a base camp. A real place to live, located 1.2 km from the front line, with necessary facilities for the hairy. This explains why we now find kitchen or sanitary facilities for soldiers," says Yveline Pilla, president of Meuse Argonne Patrimoine.
Reforest and enhance the historic site
Supported by the NFB, the project aims to raise approximately €200,000 in donations. The spruces planted after the war to restore greenery to places not resistant to global warming, other species will succeed.
The ONF Nancy, which supervises the operation, is thinking in particular about choosing Atlas cedars or Bornmüller fir trees. The two priorities set out in the specifications focus on reforestation but also the enhancement of this historic site. The subscription, which must be accompanied by tax reductions for donors, is expected to extend over five years.