Orchards

Traditional orchards are among the most species-rich habitats in Central Europe. Especially in southern Germany, their loosely scattered, tall-trunked fruit trees have shaped the landscape for centuries. Yet these orchards have been in decline for decades. Although traditional orchards are legally protected, there is still no up-to-date and complete overview of where they can actually be found. But exactly this knowledge would be the basis for protecting and maintaining them in a targeted way. Surveying all orchards on foot is hardly feasible given the vast area involved, and it would be far too expensive. ...