Opening of the Communal Pastures

The Communal Pastures

The communal marshes are vast, flood-prone natural meadows in the Marais Poitevin. Originally reclaimed from the sea through drainage projects in the 10th century, these lands became sites for fishing, hunting, and grazing. In the French Revolution, they were turned into national property and granted to the villages. Today, they serve as a flood zone in winter and are a vital source of biodiversity. Though some communities have kept their communal lands, few still use them for collective grazing. In South Vendée, collective pastures remain in Lairoux, Chasnais, les Magnils-Reigniers, Nalliers, Vouillé-les-Marais, and la Taillée. The opening of the communal pastures is always a festive event!

Each year in April, when floodwaters have receded, the communal pasture is ready to welcome cattle and horses. This is the time for toucher du communal. Farmers pay a fee per animal to the local authorities for the privilege. After a final veterinary inspection and a round of antiparasitic treatment, the long-awaited freedom begins! Watching the animals set foot in the meadow is an experience filled with joy—cows prance, kick, and moo with excitement. It’s pure happiness, and it’s contagious. At the largest communal pastures, nearly 400 animals are introduced each year, requiring multiple truckloads, much to the delight of both young and old.

The toucher du communal brings with it a lively festival atmosphere, complete with local markets, exhibitions, and other activities.

The Gathering

Missed the opening? No worries! “Round-up” events take place in late August, September, and October, marking the time for herding the animals out. This is called contention. At dawn, cowboys descend upon the marshes to round up the animals. Like a scene from the Wild West, riders and their horses display impressive skills as they guide the herds back to the holding pens. It’s time for some of the cows to head out!