HELVETIA SCI
Saturday 26 June 2021
This Saturday, 12 motivated people gathered around Jean-Claude Roch, a former Vaudois wildlife guardian, convinced of the interest of working for the rehabilitation of grouse biotopes (see project page). It encourages time to develop spaces for the benefit of the grouse, which is still present in adjacent open areas. The singing of a rooster was also heard, which reinforced the ardour of each one.
The objective was to prepare a park above the Col de la Croix, so that goats could overcome the vernes. The project involved fencing a 1.8 hectare plot for young goats to graze this tough shrub intensively. In 3 years they will have eaten leaves and bark, which will completely kill this vigorous and invasive essence, the green alder.
The motivation of the participants was palpable. The hunters present showed that they were convinced of the importance of carrying out this type of action. The operation took place in a no-hunting zone, which does not matter because the investment in hunting far exceeds the will to shoot.
The contour of the plot was cut. The equipment was valiantly mounted on a steep slope, wooden poles were planted to ensure the strength of the fence. Removable stakes were put every 3 metres, and three blue wires were pulled to prevent the goats from leaving. A solar battery has been installed and protected by poles to prevent cows from harming it awkwardly.
A meal based on pâté and sausages of deer and wild boars allowed to eat. This friendly moment in the sheepfold made it possible to clarify several points about this pilot project which should extend to other places.
A big thank you to the participants who did not hide their enthusiasm and with whom an appointment is planned in 3 years, in the same place, to observe the result.