Presentation of the 2024 Sylvotrophies

This Friday, the awards ceremony for the Sylvotrophées competition was held, which recognizes owners and managers committed to balanced management of their forests. For this new edition, 3 forest groups in Dordogne were rewarded by the Park.

Promoting balanced forest management

In Périgord-Limousin, forests are at the heart of the landscapes and the local economy. Covering more than 43% of the Park's surface area, they are responsible for nearly 20% of the territory's industrial jobs. But the forest is also a natural environment that is home to many species. This is why the Périgord-Limousin Regional Natural Park has been working with forestry stakeholders since its creation, in order to support them in implementing a sustainable forestry economy and to promote inspiring initiatives. It is with this last aim in mind that the Park held its 2nd local edition of the Sylvotrophées this year.

Organised every two years by IPAMAC and the Regional Natural Parks of the Massif Central, the Sylvotrophées aim to reward locally forest owners and managers who have managed their forest in a balanced way, taking into account economic, environmental and social issues.

The competition thus promotes so-called multifunctional management, i.e. forest management that allows for the production of quality wood, the preservation of biodiversity and the provision of a leisure and rejuvenation space accessible to all. Only balanced and thoughtful forest management can shape a forest capable of fulfilling these multiple roles. Through these competitions, the Parks also aim to promote these sustainable practices to other owners and the general public.

Armand's Beauties in the Woods, 2024 winner 

As part of the 2023-2024 edition, the Périgord-Limousin Regional Natural Park awarded the forestry group Les Belles au bois d'Armand (Abjat-sur-Bandiat) and its manager, Frédéric Bernard. The owner, a specialist in oak silviculture, works closely with his manager, who handles marking and harvesting. The family-run estate takes a long-term approach to timber production, respecting environmental and social considerations.

To maintain the site's fertility, they work in favorable weather conditions and with minimal impact on the soil, using small machinery and manual labor . The harvested timber produces firewood for local use. Associated natural habitats (old trees from former hedgerows, wetlands) are preserved, and diversification is encouraged whenever possible. Furthermore, forestry operations are planned to respect the hiking trails bordering the property, so as not to inconvenience other users. Forestry practiced according to best practices!

Inspiring examples

The Sapine (Firbeix) and Faye (Mareuil-en-Périgord) forestry groups were also recognized for their commitment. They received the "Jury's Choice" award for integrating Natura 2000 considerations and the "Jury's Commendation" for conserving old-growth forests, respectively. The third local edition of the competition will be held in 2026, with applications due as early as 2025. Foresters interested in applying are invited to contact the Park.