Wildfire in Gironde destroys 80 hectares of INRAE research areas

Cestas – 30 July 2026: According to Franceinfo, around 80 hectares of forestry research plots belonging to the French research institute INRAE burned in the major fire in Gironde. The plots were part of a site near Bordeaux where long-term research into forest resilience is being conducted. Experimental installations were lost whose scientific value lay precisely in their observation over many years.

Experts used the affected areas to study, among other things, how different tree species develop in mixed stands. Such experiments are intended to provide insight into which forests are better able to withstand drought, heat and other consequences of climate change. Other plots were used to document changes in tree growth, vitality and survival prospects over longer periods.

According to the report, research into so-called bioaggressors was also affected. These include diseases, insects and other organisms that can weaken trees and alter forest ecosystems. The loss of designated comparison plots makes it more difficult to evaluate long-term developments. Previously secured measurements remain available, but new experimental series cannot retrospectively replace the interrupted observation of the same stands.

The INRAE Forest Pierroton unit has an extensive area in Gironde for research and practical experiments. Its work is closely linked to the regional forestry and timber industry. In a landscape characterized by large pine forests, the studies provide a basis for reforestation, tree-species selection and management that takes account of growing fire and climate risks.

According to the authorities, the fire had affected around 42,000 hectares in the Saumos and Le Porge area since 22 July. Emergency crews were able to stabilize the fire, but continued to face a demanding situation because of the extent of the affected area. In view of the exceptionally high wildfire risk, the Gironde Departmental Council had ordered additional restrictions and protective measures.

In addition to destroyed plants and damaged infrastructure, the fire represents above all a considerable loss of time for research. Young plants and precisely established comparison plots can be set up again, but they will not regain comparable scientific value for years. Only continuous observation makes it possible to distinguish the effects of drought periods, extreme heat, competition between tree species and pest infestations from one another.

According to INRAE, a precise assessment of fire damage is required to monitor vegetation recovery and develop appropriate protection and management measures. Work must now be carried out on the burned areas to determine which experiments have been completely lost, which data sets could be secured and which programs can continue at other sites.