Nature outing for volunteers focusing on conservation efforts
On a rainy day in June 2025, a group of nature lovers embarked on a traditional conservation excursion in the diverse meadow landscape around Rottenburg a. d. Laaber. The event, held in the Landshut district, was an informative and practical programme that offered a unique opportunity for exchange among volunteers and with the lower nature conservation authority.
The excursion began at the municipal sports facility, where the group was greeted by First Mayor Alfred Holzner, Veronika Oberpriller from the Environmental Department of the city of Rottenburg, and Helmut Naneder from the Landscape Conservation Association. Mayor Holzner presented the project "City-Country-River," an initiative through which the city of Rottenburg is implementing measures to promote biodiversity.
The group then ventured to Niedereulenbach, where they visited a stork's nest and a natural hedge. The diverse blooming meadows at this location were particularly noteworthy, with experts reporting the development of the endangered cornflower.
Throughout the day, advisors for hornets, beavers, mussels, and building insects, as well as nature conservation wardens, attended the excursion. Some of these attendees held multiple roles in nature conservation, making for a rich and knowledgeable gathering.
Despite the heavy rain, the nature enthusiasts remained undeterred, reflecting on the interesting and educational afternoon they had experienced. The group learned many fascinating details about the local flora and fauna, and with luck and better weather, they could potentially observe storks, herons, and even the breeding pair of lapwings in the wet meadows of Högldorf.
At the observation platform in Högldorf, the water buffalo herd could be observed, adding to the day's educational and enjoyable experiences. The event concluded with a shared snack in Rottenburg, where all involved expressed their enthusiasm for the programme.
The exact origins of the "Stadt-Land-Fluss" initiative in Rottenburg remain uncertain, but the impact of such events on local biodiversity and community engagement is clear. As the group dispersed, they carried with them a renewed appreciation for the beauty and importance of the meadow landscapes around Rottenburg a. d. Laaber.
