Safeguarding heritage and landscapes

The charm of the Yvelines comes considerably from its natural spaces. Surrounding the many châteaux that dot the western Paris basin, the state-owned and wild forests are an invitation to escape. That's why the Département des Yvelines is committed to a policy of restoring and preserving its arboreal heritage.

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A tree-lined setting for the Château des Mesnuls

It's one of the best-known avenues in the Yvelines region for cycling enthusiasts. With 800m of cobblestones and a climb of over a kilometre, the allée du château des Mesnuls is a major sporting challenge. But above all, this avenue is majestic. The linden trees, planted in single rows, date back to 1708. Double lines were added in 1836. Following a number of worrying phytosanitary analyses, the Yvelines department decided to cut down 75 trees and replant 146. The project was awarded the "Allées d'arbres" prize at the Salon du Patrimoine 2022.

Strengthening the forest immune system

Most of Yvelines' forests are between 300 and 400 years old. Planted for their wood, they are generally made up of groups of species that make them vulnerable to various diseases and global warming. This is what happened to the Taille d'Herbelay forest on the outskirts of Aigremont. An entire plantation of chestnut trees has been struck down by ink disease. In response, the Département planted almost four hectares using the species diversification process. By varying the species, the forest becomes more resilient. A total of 3,500 trees were planted during winter 2021.

Find out more HERE

Protecting the forest and the people of Yvelines

Roadside forests can be a major hazard for motorists, especially in winter. Visibility, icy roads, obstacles, animal crossings... The risks are numerous. To counter this, the Département des Yvelines has created a tiered edge on the RD149. It begins with the restoration of a small country hedge, partly made up of hawthorn, corm or cherry trees, and then gives way to a strip of woodland forming a thick bush for around ten metres. This is followed by the forest, with its tall trees set further back. This process protects the forest from climatic changes, while ensuring greater road safety. In all, some 2,500 trees have been planted.

Find out more HERE