Pré-en-Pail-Saint-Samson is embracing ecological revitalization with a collaborative project to renature the area surrounding its future train station eco-district. Students from two CM (roughly equivalent to 5th grade) classes at the École du Belvédère recently participated in a key step: planting a hedgerow, demonstrating a commitment to biodiversity and sustainable development within the community. This initiative, a partnership between the Communauté de Communes du Mont des Avaloirs (CCMA), the local municipality, the Parc naturel régional, the UNESCO Global Geopark Normandie-Maine, and SCIC Bois Bocage énergie, underscores a holistic approach to integrating nature into new infrastructure.
The project aims to create a more environmentally friendly space, and the hedgerow planting on February 5th is a tangible example of that commitment. The CCMA, representing 26 communes and over 17,428 residents, is spearheading the effort to transform the area into a thriving ecosystem alongside modern amenities. The eco-district is envisioned as a model for sustainable living, balancing the needs of the community with the preservation of the natural environment.
Hedgerow Planting: A Lesson in Ecology for Young Students
Perrine Prével, a specialist in bocage and agroforestry with SCIC Bois Bocage Énergie, took the time to educate the students on the importance of the planting. She explained how the selected trees and shrubs – including hazel, juniper, sorbus, birch, hornbeam, medlar, and hawthorn – will contribute to the health of the local ecosystem. According to Prével, the hedgerow will provide habitat for birds, insects, and butterflies, while too helping to retain water and protect the natural landscape. Despite uncertain weather conditions, the children enthusiastically participated, equipped with boots and rain gear, demonstrating a hands-on understanding of environmental stewardship.
The newly planted hedgerow will serve a practical purpose as well, acting as a protective barrier and visual separation between the future solar panel array and a greenway. This thoughtful design integrates renewable energy infrastructure with natural elements, minimizing environmental impact and maximizing the benefits for both people and wildlife. The CCMA is located at 1, rue de la Corniche de Pail – Pré-en-Pail – 53140 Pré-en-Pail-Saint-Samson, and can be contacted at +33 (0)2 43 30 11 11.
Broader Environmental Initiatives in the Mont des Avaloirs Region
This renaturation project is part of a wider trend towards environmental consciousness within the Mont des Avaloirs region. The CCMA has also announced simplified recycling procedures, effective January 1, 2026, allowing residents to combine all packaging and paper in the same yellow and blue bins. This streamlining of the recycling process aims to increase participation and reduce waste. The CCMA recently held an inquiry regarding modifications to the local urban planning scheme, running from September 22nd to October 23rd, 2025, demonstrating a commitment to responsible land use and development.
The region’s dedication to sustainability is further highlighted by initiatives like thermal walks led by INHARI, showcasing the benefits of energy renovation. These efforts, combined with the eco-district project, position Pré-en-Pail-Saint-Samson and the surrounding communities as leaders in environmental innovation.
The future Gare eco-district represents a significant investment in the long-term sustainability of the area. As construction progresses and the planted hedgerow matures, the project will serve as a model for integrating ecological principles into urban development. The CCMA’s ongoing commitment to environmental initiatives, coupled with the enthusiastic participation of local students, signals a promising future for the region.
What comes next for the eco-district involves the continued development of the solar panel array and the greenway, alongside ongoing monitoring of the hedgerow’s growth and impact on the local ecosystem. The success of this project could pave the way for similar initiatives in other communities within the Mont des Avaloirs region and beyond. Share your thoughts on this exciting development in the comments below!
