Baumgart

Orchard meadows are an extensive, multifunctional and traditional form of land use. Usually, they combine the production of fruit with permanent grassland. Orchard meadows provide habitats for many animal and plant species and fulfil important ecological services. They shape the landscape, create identity and play an important role in the preservation of old and autochthonous fruit varieties.

However, due to the intensification of agriculture and the expansion of residential and industrial areas, this cultural landscape is in decline throughout the Alpine region.

To counteract this trend, the project aims to raise awareness for the high value of orchard meadows. The preservation of this species-rich cultural landscape in the Alpine region is to be promoted through targeted awareness-raising measures, public relations and the establishment of an international network.