Right here we find the Baum des Jahres Stone. It is more than just a marker. It is a symbol of a larger movement. This movement emphasizes the value of trees in our society.
The Baum des Jahres Stone commemorates the initiative. Many countries highlight a tree each year. This effort aims to raise awareness about the importance of trees.
The organization varies from country to country. The tree selection also depends on local species. Some countries choose a specific tree. Others hold national competitions to pick the Baum des Jahres.
In Germany, the Baum des Jahres is selected every October. The “Baum des Jahres Dr. Silvius Wodarz Foundation” makes the selection. The “Kuratorium Baum des Jahres” also helps.
Silvius Wodarz founded the Kuratorium in 1991. He was the founder of the Wahlstedt environmental protection association. The association has named a Baum des Jahres since 1989. The Kuratorium Baum des Jahres became a specialist advisor. Wodarz is the president of the foundation. Andreas Roloff chairs the KBJ. “Baum des Jahres” is a protected trademark.
The activities focus on “People for Trees and Children Need Nature”. The foundation publishes leaflets for everyone about each Baum des Jahres. It holds an annual conference in a different state each year.
Wodarz announced the founding of the “People for Trees” foundation in 2007. This happened during the proclamation of the 20th Baum des Jahres. In June 2010, it was renamed “Baum des Jahres Dr. Silvius Wodarz Foundation”. The Federal Environment Minister is the patron. There was also a message from the President Horst Köhler.
A German Tree Queen is chosen each year since 2010. She represents the Baum des Jahres to the public.
At Schäfersee in Berlin-Reinickendorf a Baum des Jahres is planted every year. This also happens in the Berlin Zoo. Many Bãume des Jahres can be viewed there. You will also find name stones and plaques. These date back to 2001.
The “Allee Baum des Jahres” was created near Kerpen-Buir. This was part of a new construction project on the A4 motorway. The Bãume des Jahres from 1989 to 2018 were planted there.
In Bremervörde, a space was created in the nature park. All Bãume des Jahres were planted there. The area is always open.
The local council in Helsen created a “Pfad der Jahresbäume”. Each Baum des Jahres since 1989 can be viewed.
The Baum des Jahres stone stands as a reminder. It highlights the importance of trees. The initiative promotes awareness. It also encourages action. It protects our natural world. Remember the stone’s message as you explore Berlin. Appreciate the vital role trees play.