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

Practical information and prices

MEETING PLACE
It will be sent to you in the confirmation letter.

Organisational costs

• RFSB member (and family): 30€ /person
• Non-member of RSFB: 60€ /person

Registration

Registration before 24 August 2026

The day will be in french