Reed Care in Chablais
Realized:
2020
performed by:
The Chablais forest was created on the north-eastern shore of Lake Murten around 100 years ago, after the Jura water correction. The lake level dropped by 2.5 m, which meant that 350 hectares of land were gained. Of this, 175 hectares were reforested. Natural succession was allowed on the remaining area. Unfortunately, along with the native plants, invasive problem plants also conquered the area, especially Himalayan balsam. Once established, it spreads very quickly, as the seeds are thrown through the air up to seven metres. The blanket carpet can even displace the reeds in the shoreline.
Our work in Chablais lasted from February to August and included mowing, neophyte control and tree pruning.
In February we carried out thinning work at this location. The volunteers who had completed the chainsaw course were allowed to fell smaller trees themselves.
Regular use is necessary on open reed areas to prevent the meadows from becoming overgrown with bushes. The canton of Fribourg has decided against grazing. The wet meadows were therefore mown with a brush cutter and a scythe mower and the clippings were removed.
Unfortunately, during floods, a lot of rubbish is washed into the reed belt and remains there. This is not only a visual problem, the rubbish also pollutes the food source of many wild animals. The environmentally conscious volunteers helped to remove it and dispose of it properly. This means that the Chablais remains equally valuable for animal residents and visitors seeking relaxation.