Animal sanctuary on the outskirts of Rastatt marked by anniversary celebration for its role in sheltering numerous species
In the heart of Rastatt, a picturesque town nestled in the fertile upper Rhine Valley of Baden-Württemberg, lies an extraordinary piece of land known as the Rastatt Orchard Meadow. This traditional agroforestry system, or Streuobstwiesen in German, was initiated in the year 2000 and has since become a thriving habitat for various flora and fauna.
The orchard meadow, spanning approximately 100 by 100 meters, was initially home to 66 fruit trees, including 24 apple trees, pear and plum trees, cherry and mirabelle trees, and eight quince trees. Over the years, it has been expanded to include wild grass beds, a large wild bee and insect hotel, and a biotope, all planted in a 72-hour action.
Pierre Fingermann, the initiator of this green oasis, played a significant role in its development. He not only planted trees and shrubs such as serviceberry and elderberry but also created a dry stone wall in 2009, which became a habitat for various animals. That same year, a stork nest tree was set up, and in 2009, participants in the trinational nature conservation youth camp created a second wild bee and insect hotel.
The Rastatt Orchard Meadow is a testament to the community's dedication to biodiversity and cultural heritage. The community of settlers and homeowners in Rastatt-Münchfeld has been maintaining the orchard meadow since its beginning, with regular pruning courses to care for the fruit trees and pass on pruning knowledge.
The orchard meadow is a sanctuary for wildlife, providing a home for deer, hedgehogs, various birds, insects, and different amphibians. To protect these inhabitants, the meadow is only mowed for the first time in the summer to ensure the safety of hiding fawns of deer.
One of the most celebrated events in the community is the annual apple pressing event at the end of September. This communal gathering, hosted by the community of settlers and homeowners in Rastatt-Münchfeld, brings together locals and visitors alike to celebrate the bounty of the Rastatt Orchard Meadow.
As the 25th anniversary of the orchard approaches, the community is gearing up for a special celebration. On September 27, 2022, they will commemorate this milestone with their annual apple pressing event, marking a quarter of a century of dedication to preserving this unique piece of agroforestry.
Pierre Fingermann, looking back on the beginnings, expresses his gratitude for the commitment and passion that has kept the Rastatt Orchard Meadow thriving. Today, this vibrant haven stands as a testament to the power of community and the importance of preserving our natural heritage.
- Pierre Fingermann, in expanding the Rastatt Orchard Meadow, introduced other plant life such as wild grass beds and various home-and-garden shrubs like serviceberry and elderberry.
- The Rastatt Orchard Meadow, apart from providing a home for wildlife, also offers a unique lifestyle experience, as exemplified by the annual apple pressing event that brings together the community to celebrate their cultural heritage and the bounty of the meadow's diverse flora.
