Regenerative hydrology in forests

The 2026 August 26 - Jalhay

Objective

The main aim of regenerative hydrology is to restore the water cycle in order to reduce the impact of both water shortages and excesses at plot AND catchment level. The approach is best known in agriculture, but could also benefit forestry. How can we improve water infiltration into the soil, groundwater recharge and the water supply to trees? How can we slow the flow of water to reduce the consequences of heavy rainfall downstream in the catchment area? These are the kinds of questions we will be asking ourselves on this day. After a presentation by Aurore Degré, professor of hydrology at the University of Liège (Gembloux Agro Bio-tech), we will have the chance to visit the facilities installed by the DNF in the Hertogenwald state forest to retain water as long as possible in the massif. These help to limit the extent of flooding downstream (in the Vesdre valley), keep water in the forest and, as the icing on the cake, provide watering places for wildlife and biodiversity. Fuelled by what we will have seen and heard in the morning, in the afternoon we will visit a plot of private woodland where the owner wishes to set up facilities to improve the water situation. A participatory workshop will help to identify the best management options. 

Speakers

• Aurore Degré, hydrologist, ULiège (Gembloux Agro Bio-Tech) 
• Yves Pieper, head of the Verviers (DNF) cantonment 
• Christophe Nothomb (Regenerative Hydrology Belgium) 
• Olivier Baudryforestry expert
• Anne and Baudouin Sagehommeowners 
• Nicolas Dassonville, RFSB 

Program

9:30 AM	Welcome and theoretical introduction
11h00	Visit of recent and older developments carried out in the Hertogenwald
13h00	Picnic (bring your own)
14h00	Visit to a plot in a private forest and collective reflection on the development to be carried out there.
16h30	End of the day

Lieu de rendez‑vous

It will be sent to you in the confirmation letter.

Les frais d’organisation

• Membre SRFB (et famille) : 30€ /personne
• Non-Membre SRFB : 60€ /personne

Registration

Inscription avant le 24 August 2026