The nature conservation education center "Eifel-Ardennen-Region" offers a two-day identification course on the topic of "Woody Plants." On the first day, the methodological tools will be provided to recognize species not only by different leaf and fruit shapes but also to already focus on the developing bud characteristics, lenticels, and bark structures this autumn. Leaves, fruits, buds, bark, growth form, and location are criteria by which species can be distinguished, while the perception of relevant details is trained using systematic identification keys.

The second day is dedicated to the Monschau hedgerow landscape. The hedges, which can reach up to eight meters in height, are much more than just a picturesque attraction. Originally constructed as living protective walls for the historical half-timbered houses and as field hedges against the wind, they now serve important ecological functions: they provide valuable refuges for protected animal and plant species and connect biotopes.
From a historical economic perspective, these hedgerow structures reflect a symbiosis between nature and regional craftsmanship. From so-called crooked wood, i.e., wood grown under mechanical tension, wood saddle makers and bridle makers used to saw out highly durable bows and plates for carrying saddles and horse harnesses, which were essential for regional labor and draft animal use.

“The Monschau hedgerow landscape is an outstanding example of how sustainable cultural landscape maintenance can secure identity and biodiversity over centuries,” explains biologist Maria Pfeifer, who will lead the tour together with botanist Dr. Karl-Heinz Linne von Berg. “We want to show participants not only the beauty of the region but also to deepen the ecological and craft understanding of this heritage.”

Speaker: Dr. Karl-Heinz Linne von Berg, Dipl.-Biol. Maria A.Pfeifer

Time: 10.00 a.m.-5.00 p.m.
Cost: 30€
Location: Schleiden-Vogelsang, NABEAR, Vogelsang 90
Info Tel.: 01515. 6625207
E-Mail: anfrage@nabear.de

Registration required.