Context

In Forcalquier and Montagne de Lure, aromatic and medicinal plants are central to daily activities. These plants play a key economic role, with roughly 3500 jobs directly linked to this industry. The natural riches of the Montagne de Lure1 also make the area very popular with tourists. The total number of visitors to this territory is estimated at 350,000 per year2. There are numerous public and private initiatives in this sector and public interest in aromatic plants is growing. It is therefore necessary to support this local dynamic by promoting the area's natural and cultural heritage.

1Montagne de Lure is a Biosphere Reserve, a Sensitive Natural Space (Espace Nature Sensible) and a Natura 2000 site
2Tourism Development Agency for Alpes-de-Hautes-Provence (2012) 

 

Supported project

The L'OCCITANE Foundation has joined together with the Communauté de Commune des Pays de Forcalquier et de la Montagne de Lure (CCFML) to promote this area. The project aims to create three educational trails which illustrate traditional and modern harvesting practices. As they walk along these themed routes, the public can learn about the local history of merchant vendors, the typical foraging spots of the past, modern areas of activity as well as the natural riches of Montagne de Lure. 

Some figures

From an environmental perspective, the aim is to preserve the natural heritage of the Montagne de Lure by channelling tourist flows and raising public awareness regarding the importance of its protection. As a result of this project, approximately 50,000 visitors2 will be educated each year and 20 plant varieties will be promoted and preserved. From an economic perspective, the aim is to promote this local sector by supporting local producers, strengthening the position of this area as an iconic location for aromatic and medicinal plants.

2Touristic Development Agency of the Alpes de Hautes Provence (2012)

Budget 5 000 euros

Goal 23 preserved varieties