Students from the CAFRE horticulture program embarked on an enlightening study tour in France, gaining insights into innovative practices in the field. Their journey took them to the picturesque Loire Valley, where they visited notable locations such as Nantes and Angers.
The tour included a visit to Pépinières Lepage, a large-scale producer of ornamental plants and bulbs located in Nantes, which produces around 3 million perennials and grasses annually. The students also explored L’Institut Agro Rennes-Angers, renowned for its focus on horticultural production and landscape design.
One highlight of the trip was meeting Vincent Favreau, an organic market gardener from Saumur who has been running his organic gardening business for 20 years. He shared his experiences working on three hectares of land, navigating challenging soil conditions and variable rainfall. “The area presents challenging soil conditions and variable rainfall,” he explained, emphasizing the importance of adaptability in organic farming.
As the CAFRE students immersed themselves in learning about sustainability and best practices, the backdrop of their visit coincided with significant events planned across France. On May 1, a public holiday celebrated since 1947, workers will march to advocate for their rights amidst rising living costs.
Key details about the May 1 demonstrations:
- Between 110,000 and 160,000 participants are expected to join marches across the country.
- Around 320 demonstrations are scheduled in major towns and cities.
- The CGT union has called for protests against the high cost of living.
The Tour de France is also making headlines, with Stage 1 set to take place in the Scottish Borders on July 2, 2027. This prestigious cycling event reaches an audience of approximately 3.5 to 4 billion people across more than 190 countries.
This convergence of horticultural education and workers’ rights advocacy underscores the interconnectedness of various societal issues in France today. As CAFRE students return home with newfound knowledge, they carry with them not only insights into horticulture but also an awareness of ongoing social movements that shape their industry.
