The Natura2000-Experience

From our accomodation on the German side, we will explore the Natura trail Böhmerwald situated right in the border area. The Böhmerwald is a part of the Bavarian Forest, which is the largest connected woody mountains region in central Europe. Isolated for decades by the iron curtain, a truly primeval landscape with a diverse plant and animal life has been preserved here. Many species otherwise almost extinct in the rest of Central Europe still thrive in this region, from our largest wildcat, the lynx, to the tiniest birch mouse. Rivers and brooks bubble and ripple freely across the country. Moors and heathland are home to rare plants. On the Czech side of the forest ridge, there are virgin forests with century-old spruces. Participants should be interested in environmental/experiential education. Previous experience in these field and/or group work is a plus, but not a prerequisite for admittance. While we will be garnering hands-on experience from building our „Natura in action“-trail, we will also discover a European Natura 2000 area, exchange best-practice examples of environmental education at Nature Friends Europe, and responsible outdoor sports. „Natura in Action“ is a project run by the German Nature Friends and funded by the German Ministry for Families, Seniors, Women and Youth. Its goal is to erect Natura 2000 areas (European nature reserves) as appealing destinations for exciting and sustainable trips for young people. Traveling and exercising sustainably and environmentally responsibly has always been a matter close to the heart of the Young Nature Friends. Preserving natural resources is a central motivation of the YNF. Still, young people need to be able to approach and experience nature first hand. This is where Natura Trails come in. These routes, build by members of the YNF in the Natura 2000 European nature reserves, are supposed to heighten awareness for the necessity to protect our native wildlife and serve as starting points for further group activities called „Natura in Action“.