The last draught horses
In Wallonia, a unique culture of working horsemanship survives against all odds. Over 100 draught horses are still at work in the forests, an essential part of a timber industry otherwise entirely run mechanically. These powerful and agile animals are so highly trained that they can pull huge trunks down steep, thick-wooded hills without damaging a single tree in their wake. Only 60 forestry workers, mostly older men, are still able to guide the horses in the Walloon tradition, through verbal orders issued in a unique language and the help of a thin leather line. Far from being an exercise in nostalgia, the pictures document the relevance of agricultural tradition to a highly sophisticated industry and the fascination these beautiful animals continue to hold over their owners and animal lovers alike.
by Job Roger
