The International Ornithology Film Festival of Ménigoute, celebrating 42 years of nature-focused art, relies on dedicated volunteers and partnerships to sustain its mission.
Festival origins and legacy
The International Ornithology Film Festival of Ménigoute, known as FIFO, was founded in 1985 in the Deux-Sèvres region of France. It focuses on nature photography and documentary filmmaking and is held annually at the end of October, drawing participants and visitors from across the country.Volunteers and their motivations
Volunteers like Jean-Jacques Fouquet, a retired journalist, have dedicated years to the festival, seeing it as a key driver for local development. He highlighted the festival's photo contest, launched in 2009, and the formation of Camera Natura in 2017 to manage it, along with the introduction of "The Bird Photo of the Year" in 2021 to promote biodiversity.Community involvement and expansion
Pierrette Chaigne, a retired teacher and volunteer since 2003, has contributed to various aspects of the festival, including ticketing and event setup. She also pushed for the inclusion of textile artists in the event, a change that will be seen this year in Vasles, a partner commune of the FIFO.New volunteers and festival impact
Coline Noyau, a volunteer since 2025, described the festival as a hub for learning, exchange, and community. She works at the snack bar, using the role to channel her energy and connect with people, emphasizing the festival’s role as a meeting place for enthusiasts and professionals alike.Environmental efforts during the event
Marie Whitead, president of the CPIE of Gâtine poitevine, oversees waste management during the festival through the "Triton'déchet" commission. She ensures that organic waste is composted, recyclables are sorted, and residual waste is disposed of responsibly, reflecting her 25 years of experience in environmental education.Challenges and future concerns
Jean-Jacques Fouquet acknowledged the festival’s 42-year history and loyal audience but warned of its financial fragility. He stressed the importance of maintaining local volunteer support and managing increasing annual costs, which depend heavily on unpredictable subsidies and community efforts.
