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// Workers AI · dad joke modeWhat did the tree in Forêt de Mormal say? Leaf me alone.

Forêt de Mormal
Forest of Mormal
The Nervii trail in the Mormal forest
The Nervii trail in the Mormal forest
Map
Interactive map of Forêt de Mormal
LocationNord, France
Nearest cityAvesnes-sur-Helpe, Valenciennes
Coordinates50°12′N 3°44′E / 50.200°N 3.733°E / 50.200; 3.733
Area9,163 ha (22,640 acres)
Governing bodyOffice national des forêts

The Forêt de Mormal (Forest of Mormal) is a forest in France, close to the Belgian border. It is the largest forest in the Nord department, spanning over 9,100 hectares.

History

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It is best known historically for its role during the British Expeditionary Force's retreat from Mons in August 1914. Its dense terrain and perceived lack of passable roads forced I and II Corps of the British army to divide, keeping the two corps separated for several days. Despite this, some British units did navigate the forest, while elements of the advancing German army passed through it as well, taking Haig's I Corps by surprise.

Geography and ecology

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Because the Nord department is one of France's departments with the least tree coverage, the Forêt de Mormal at a modest 9135 hectares is the largest forest in the department .[1] The most common trees are oak, beech and hornbeam. There's a network of small streams which flows from the high ground in the middle which contributes to the forest's biodiversity. The forest is a significant refuge for wildlife, including the department's only deer population. [2]

References

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  1. ↑ "Forest of Mormal, France is a forest in the Nord department". www.francethisway.com. Retrieved 2023-11-16.
  2. ↑ "The best walks and hikes around Forêt domaniale de Mormal". Kommot. September 13, 2026.
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