The Rolling Forest School initiative continues to provide children with an engaging introduction to nature, wildlife, and conservation. On September 23rd, 2024, the school visited the Castle Kindergarten in Ringenberg, followed by an educational adventure in the castle park on September 25th. Guided by five hunting groups, 45 children, eight teachers, and staff explored the park’s rich biodiversity, encountering species such as mallards, grey herons, roebucks, great spotted woodpeckers, tawny owls, foxes, and even earthworms and snails. The program offered a hands-on experience, inspiring curiosity and appreciation for the natural world.
The Rolling Forest School also participated in the Discovery Day event at ZOOM Gelsenkirchen, contributing to the farm scene with interactive activities. Children eagerly engaged in making animal tracks and examining wildlife specimens at the stand, which was visited by several hundred children and their families. This dynamic educational experience emphasized the importance of wildlife conservation and fostered an early understanding of human connections with nature.
These efforts highlight the importance of fostering environmental awareness and a sense of stewardship in younger generations. Such initiatives not only educate but also empower children to value biodiversity and contribute to sustainable land-use practices in the future.
EU Policy Relevance
The Rolling Forest School aligns with the EU’s Green Deal objectives, particularly the Biodiversity Strategy for 2030, which emphasizes reconnecting people with nature and fostering environmental awareness. Early education programs like this contribute to the EU’s goal of creating a society that values biodiversity and actively works toward its protection. By involving hunters and conservationists in these activities, the initiative also supports the EU’s efforts to bridge the gap between rural traditions and contemporary sustainability goals.
Through engaging educational programs, the Rolling Forest School sets an example of how local efforts can support EU-wide goals, nurturing a generation of environmentally conscious citizens ready to safeguard Europe’s natural heritage.
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Source: Karin Leisten
