Dr. Jürgen Gerdes: 30 years of nature conservation in Bamberg and his beginnings

Dr. Jürgen Gerdes: 30 years of nature conservation in Bamberg and his beginnings

After 30 years of tireless engagements for nature conservation in Bamberg, Dr. Jürgen Gerdes retired. A pioneer that began the first full -time conservationist in the city in the early 1990s, he looks back at a time that was shaped by valuable discoveries and significant changes in the field of nature conservation.

describes Gerdes fascinating experiences that he had as part of his offices. One of the most impressive discoveries during his career was the quail king, an endangered breeding bird that was not seen in Germany for a long time. In the 1990s, during an exploration with Thomas Stahl from the Landesbund für Birdschutz, they noticed three -called males in the Südlur am Sendelbach. The quail king, which had previously disappeared in Germany, was attracted by the technique of taping. The image of this circumstances remains unforgettable when the animal actually came up to her feet.

encounters with nature

The return of the quail king was unfortunately only temporary because the female was missing and the males migrated. Nevertheless, there are also gratifying returnees, such as the stork, which after a absence of 120 years nested again on a baroque hotel. For Gerdes, this return is not only a sign of positive changes, but also a personal reward for his decades. Despite the return of local species, the phenomenon of the change of species can be felt. Today, new species such as the Italian Schönschreck and wooden bees move into the region, which is not a reason for Gerdes. It sees a potential increase in biodiversity through the climatic changes, even if this brings new challenges, especially for species that live in higher altitudes.

Bamberg as a city is well there by nature conservation. The geographical location and the efforts of the city planning office to convert industrial wasteland into residential areas have caused positive things. Gerdes particularly emphasizes the sustainable planning in the city, which has made it possible to preserve natural resources. With regard to the area, Bamberg is one of the smallest cities in Bavaria, but there are always challenges that arise from the urban boom. This density requires particularly careful handling in dealing with the existing areas.

The future of nature conservation in Bamberg

When asked about the influence of climate change, Gerdes explains that the area seal caused by climate change is a serious problem. Even if more species are located in the region, they are dependent on corresponding habitats. Gerdes therefore urges that the seal does not continue and looks at the global decline in biodiversity with concern. The tropical rainforest, as a home of many species, suffers greatly from deforestation and is a great concern for Gerdes.

The professionalization of nature conservation in Bamberg is a first step to meet the new requirements. In recent decades, nature conservation in the city has developed considerably and has now been legally structured in many areas. This also brings with it the need for more staff, which is a challenge for the city. The success of these efforts is evident in the European Natura 2000 protective area system, which also includes an important area within the city.

gerdes in the future decades both as a greener place and in terms of nature conservation efforts. There are still many areas that are available for greening, and it sees great potential, even if the thought of using areas such as walls or roofs is not always popular.

His recommendations for nature lovers include the city ecological teaching trail, which begins on the Michelsberg and offers an attractive tour to the Altenburg. Another favorite place for Gerdes is the old Rothof, where the natural monument, the large linden tree, is. This calm environment provides a look at the Altenburg, away from the crowds, and offers a beautiful picture, especially for the cherry blossom.

Even after 30 years in the service of nature conservation, Dr. Jürgen Gerdes thoughtfully about the multitude of topics and challenges that need to be mastered. His gaze remains on nature and his heir is continued by the new employees who will already build on his expertise. His commitment and discoveries will remain unforgettable in the history of nature conservation in Bamberg, while the city continues to face the challenges that the future brings.