Scythe Workshops Revive Traditional Land Care in Germany's Rhön Region

Two recent events in the Rhön region highlighted the importance of traditional land management for biodiversity. The 'Honorary Cause for Nature: Active with the Scythe' event near Geblar on 30 May and a scythe workshop in the Dörrensolz Variety Garden on 6 June drew strong participation. Both were organised by the Thuringian Rhön Landscape Conservation Association and the Natura 2000 Station Rhön. At the Geblar event, volunteers used scythes to carefully mow sensitive areas of the UNESCO Rhön Biosphere Reserve’s Geblar Calcareous Tufa Fen. The Thuringian administration of the Rhön Biosphere Reserve supplied the tools. This effort directly supported local wildlife, including the fire salamander, whose larvae depend on the fen’s spring pools.

The second event took place in the Dörrensolz Variety Garden. Its diverse heritage apple varieties and structured grasslands offered an ideal setting for learning. Under the guidance of Claudia Schneider and Roland Schneider, participants practised peening and mowing techniques on the garden’s meadows.

Both events underscored how traditional methods help preserve delicate ecosystems. The organisers thanked all involved for their commitment to the cause. The workshops provided hands-on experience in sustainable land management. They also reinforced the role of community action in protecting biodiversity. The Thuringian Rhön Landscape Conservation Association expressed gratitude to all participants and supporters for their contributions.