Nature conservation authority emphasizes the importance of trees in agricultural landscapes
Field trees are small green islands in the middle of agricultural areas - and they are ecologically indispensable. The Lower Nature Conservation Authority of the Groß-Gerau district draws attention to the important role of these trees as steps between biotopes.
Whether along dirt roads, between pastures and fields or for the marking of property boundaries- field trees not only structure the landscape, but also fulfill decisive functions in nature and climate protection.
Connection between biotopes
The mixture of trees, shrubs and a herbaceous edge zone makes field trees in the biotope network according to § 21 Federal Nature Conservation Act. As so-called steps, they combine nature conservation and natura 2000 areas and enable animal and plant species to spread and exchange genetically.
Especially in highly used agricultural landscapes, field trees make a contribution to the preservation of biodiversity. They offer habitat, food and protection for types such as ninth park, gold camer, hedgehogs, earth toad and numerous insects - for example through flowering plants such as sloes and black thorn, which in turn are an important source of food for pollinations and wild bees.
Protection against erosion and climate function
In addition to their role in species protection, field trees also contribute to stabilizing the soils. Their roots in particular protect slopes from erosion. At the same time, they act as wind brakes, reduce evaporation and donate shadows - important functions in times of increasing dry periods. The landscape is also upgraded by the trees.
Care under protection requirements
So that field trees can fulfill their functions in the long term, gentle and proper care is crucial. Between March 1 and September 30, the statutory protection period for brood and rearing applies. No clearing or strong cuts are allowed during this period.
The nature conservation authority recommends rejuvenating field trees over several years in order to obtain their ecological value. Leaving dead wood also makes sense because it offers habitats for insects, birds and small mammals.
Field trees show that even small areas can have a great impact - as a habitat, climate stuff and link in our cultural landscape. The Groß-Gerau district is therefore committed to maintaining and maintaining these valuable structures.
(Gross-Gerau district-Red/PSGG)
