Founder recalls origins of nature festival

Dominique Brouard, the founder of the International Ornithology Film Festival (FIFO), reflects on the beginnings of the event. He explains how he created the "Quinzaine de la Nature" in Ménigoute, Deux-Sèvres, which later evolved into FIFO. This story is part of a series of writings he has shared, with earlier and later parts available in other publications.

Shift from winter sports to rural life

In Isère, Brouard fulfilled a childhood dream of exploring the mountains, but found the environment focused on profit and tourism. He and his wife realized this lifestyle did not align with their values. They decided to seek a more meaningful life in a rural setting, leading them to move to Ménigoute in 1981.

Finding purpose in Ménigoute

After the birth of their first child, Brouard sought employment in a rural area. He visited Poitiers and met Patrick Bonneau, who showed him a map of cultural centers in the region. Ménigoute, with its struggling social center, seemed promising. Brouard moved there with his family, expecting to stay only temporarily.

Launching the nature week

From the start, Brouard wanted to create the "Quinzaine de la Nature," an event focused on education and awareness of wildlife. The initiative gained strong public support, with schools and local groups participating. His wife Christine played a key role in organizing exhibitions and workshops, while local naturalists joined the effort.

Documentaries and dialogue

The first "Quinzaine de la Nature" featured film screenings and discussions on wildlife conservation. One notable film was The End of a Myth, which explored the impact of human activity on Canadian wolves. Brouard also invited ornithologist Michel Terasse to present his documentaries, which sparked conversations with local hunters about raptor populations.

Evolution into a festival

By 1984, the "Quinzaine de la Nature" had grown into a significant event. Brouard proposed transforming it into a permanent festival to highlight the region's naturalist identity. He believed in the power of visual media to raise awareness about environmental issues, a vision that would lead to the creation of the International Ornithology Film Festival.