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Soil Conservation Practices in France
Authors: J.Y. MorrisPublication: New Zealand Journal of Forestry, Volume N.Z.J.For. 1954, Issue N.Z.J.For. 7(2) 1955, pp 12-25, Aug 1955
Publisher: New Zealand Institute of Forestry
Abstract: In this, the first of two articles, the experience of French foresters working in the counter-erosion field is reviewed. Following brief historical and geographical accounts of the incidence of accelerated erosion in France, the methods employed in correction of torrents and in stabilisation of eroding catchments are described. The approach is two-fold. First, the torrents are brought under control by means of dams and other structures built in the torrent bed and in the beds of feeder torrents. And secondly, the engineering works are themselves protected by restoration of an effective plant cover, forest or grassland, in the torrent basin. The two procedures are completely complementary.
In a subsequent article the question of the possible application of French techniques in New Zealand will be discussed.