Salzwiesen fire in St. Peter-Ording: Environment on alert!

Salzwiesen fire in St. Peter-Ording: Environment on alert!

St. Peter-Ording, Deutschland - On Wednesday morning, May 8th, 2025, experts from LKN.SH examined the fire in St. Peter-Ording (North Friesland district). The fire occurred on Tuesday and had devastating effects on the environment, especially on plants, insects and soil creatures. Breeding birds such as red shocks and oyster fishermen lost their clutch, but were able to escape the fire. The affected area was a salt meadow.

At the fire location there was a special fire risk, which was reinforced by an unusually long dry period. Dead and dried plant parts are easily flammable, which is why a small spark can be enough to trigger a surface burn. The fire departments needed several water vehicles because there was no hydrant nearby. The fire brigade received support from a farmer who provided water in a manure container.

rare fires in coastal moisture areas

According to the LKN.SH, fires in coastal moisture areas are very rare. This is related to the particular ecological importance of these habitats. Coastal moisture areas, such as salt marshes, form transitions between the country and the sea and are characteristic habitats for many plant and animal species. These ecosystems not only offer habitat for fish and coastal birds, but are also important water filters and flood protection.

The endangerment of coastal moisture areas is alarming on a global scale. Around 50 to 70 percent of these biotopes have been lost in the past 100 years. The causes of this are diverse and range from dry traps, contamination, up to the threats from climate change, industrial and real estate projects as well as excessive use, as described on the website of the M-H-S.