Allies of the Ancient Oaks,
We are just shy of 2,500 signatures! Please help us exceed 5,000 this weekend by continuing to share with your friends, family, and networks. Our continued support and urgency is essential given today’s news:
Eight oaks, each about 230 years old, will be felled in the national forest of Bercé (Sarthe) to serve for the "stool" of the spire. Each tree is more than one meter in diameter and offers "more than 20 meters of useful log with a specific curvature, necessary for the production of exceptional pieces.” These Oaks will be cut down next week.
To rebuild the spire, 50% of the up to 1,500 Oaks will come from public forests (32 state and 70 municipal); the balance will come from nearly 150 private forests. “Oaks will also be offered by foreign donors; they will contribute later, taking into account the calendar constraints and to the extent of the technical and logistical possibilities, to the restoration of the frames of the great roof (nave and choir) alongside French oaks.”
To stay informed and connected, please visit the Save the Ancient Oaks website frequently (see link below).
Thank you for your support.