Context

The island of Porquerolles, located in the Var department in the Provence-Alpes Côte d'Azur region, possesses exceptional natural heritage. In fact, the varietal collections of fruit trees found there are classified as collections of national interest. There are a wide variety of fig trees, mulberry trees and even olive trees. These trees have borne witness to the history of the Mediterranean, the migrations of humanity and their agricultural activities over thousands of years. If this heritage and the biodiversity of Porquerolles are to be conserved, it is necessary to ensure the preservation and renewal of these collections.

The ASDFV has an existing collection of more than 500 varieties of fruit trees: a unique genetic heritage in France that we are proud to help maintain and conserve for future generations.

 

Supported project

The Foundation's support benefits the conservation of varietal collections of fruit trees on Porquerolles island and particularly by introducing in 2020 new varieties of fig, citrus and olive trees. These plantations will be accompanied by the establishment of an important irrigation network. In total, 320 trees of more than 60 different varieties will be planted this year following agro-ecological pratices. 

Some figures

Thanks to this project, 140 tree varieties will be preserved and promoted. Approximately 1,000 visitors will be made aware of the challenges of protecting this natural heritage every year.

The objective of the year 2020 is to preserve 60 varieties.

2020 Budget 10 000 euros

2020 Goal 60 preserved varieties

History

Project supported since 2018

Since 2018, the L'OCCITANE Foundation has been supporting the Association de Sauvegarde des Forêts Varoises (ASDFV) in its project to conserve the natural heritage of the island of Porquerolles. The challenge lies in reconciling the role of human beings, preservation and the promotion of an unique natural and scientific heritage that has existed for over 40 years. 

Total budget 30 000 euros

Total goal 140 preserved varieties

Testimonies

"Employed by the Sauvegarde Des Forêts Varoises association to work within the framework of the "COPAINS" project, I had the opportunity to discover this rich heritage endowed with many varieties of plant species. For me, organic farming is an issue for the preservation of biodiversity. My daily life in the field allowed me to learn the different techniques of the trade as well as to raise my awareness of the heritage of the Port-Cros National Park."

Wendy, employee of the association

ASDFV - Wendy

"The Conservatory's partnership within the framework of the "COPAINS" project makes it possible to enhance the conservation orchards of the Island of Porquerolles and to safeguard old and forgotten varieties.
Thanks to this partnership and the patronage of L'OCCITANE, the variety collection of olive trees will be able to expand and benefit from 25 new varieties, which have been characterized at the genetic level in collaboration with the France OLIVES sector.
"

Sylvia Lochon, Director of the Porquerolles' Botanical Conservatory

ASDFV - Sylvia