First natural safari in Amstetten: in the footsteps of the beavers in the forest!

First natural safari in Amstetten: in the footsteps of the beavers in the forest!

The first Amstettner Natursafari was successfully carried out in the idyllic Forstheide, and participation was overwhelming. This event is the start of a new series of excursion that deals with natural and environmental issues. The high demand in the region shows that interest in such topics is unbroken. The free tour of the Heidewald combined exciting nature experiences with expert knowledge transfer.

Thanks to the cooperation between the city of Amstetten, the Austrian Federal Forest and the WWF, the participants not only received insights into the domestic flora and fauna, but also information about the beaver. Maren Röttger from the Austrian Federal Forest and Sarah Layendecker from the WWF took over the expert guidance. Both clearly explained the look and behavior of the beaver and its distribution area. A highlight was certainly a visit to a beaver embankment that brought the participants closer to the positive effects of the beaver on the ecosystem. Possible conflicts were also addressed with people.

forest walk with important information

As part of the natural safari, the group also reached the topics of nursing and species protection measures in the forests. Here it was pointed out to the ash death death and the principles of sustainable forest management. Forests not only represent habitats for many animals and plants, they also fulfill numerous functions for humans. The Federal Environment Agency emphasizes that forests have a high ecological value, but also have to master challenges from environmental pollution and climate change again and again. Between 2018 and MID 2022, around 245 million solid meters fell in Germany, especially due to insect calamities, which underlines the importance of careful handling.

Sustainable and natural forest management is therefore of central importance in order to maintain the productivity and biological diversity of the forests. The 1993 Helsinki declaration defines this approach, which was also taken up in the national sustainability strategy of 2002 and the forest strategy 2050. These strategies aim to expand the natural forests and ensure that 5 % of the forest areas have a secure natural development.

sustainability in focus

The Amstettner Natursafari not only raised awareness of nature, but also generates inquiries from families and youth groups who want to learn more about our environment. The planning for further events is already in full swing. One goal remains to convey the knowledge of nature on site and to promote exchange with the participants.

As the Federal Office for Nature Conservation states, forests are indispensable ecosystems with a high biological diversity that meet diverse social demands. They are essential for ecological functionality in the landscape budget and offer relaxation and health protection, drinking water and the necessary climate protection. The Natural Safari in Amstetten could serve as an excellent example for other regions that want to create such initiatives.