Water shimmers. Sunlight dances across the ditches of the Rohrniederung. This landscape is a vital part of Bremerhaven’s open lowlands.
Welcome to the Rohrniederung. It is a protected area. The Rohrniederung safeguards the unique plant and animal life here. It also helps maintain the natural balance.
The Rohrniederung was officially designated in 2006. It covers approximately 137 hectares. Much of this area serves as compensation land. This offsets construction impacts in Bremerhaven. Other parts of the area may also be used for this purpose in the future.
Why is the Rohrniederung so special? It is home to rare plants and animals. These include the marsh marigold and the water ragwort. You might also spot the broad-leaved marsh orchid. Look for the greater rattle-box too. The Rohrniederung is also home to the rare frogbit plant.
Birds thrive here. The northern lapwing and the common snipe find refuge here. The whinchat nests in the area. The white stork also makes an appearance. Dragonflies, amphibians, and fish also live here.
The Rohrniederung’s purpose is to maintain this habitat. Conservation efforts aim to improve the area. This includes creating a network of interconnected habitats. The goal is to preserve the landscape’s beauty.
What is forbidden here? Several activities are restricted to protect the Rohrniederung. You can’t disturb the animals. Harming plants is prohibited. Dogs must be kept on leashes. Open fires are not allowed. Littering is strictly forbidden. No one may operate noisy devices. Construction is banned. Soil removal is prohibited. Commercial activities need special permission. The aim is to prevent drainage and protect the water level.
What is allowed? Farming continues here. Landowners and authorized personnel can access their properties. The construction of the B71 road was allowed within a designated path. The maintenance of roads and railways is permitted. New paths can be created with special permission. The use of the Rohr River is regulated by water laws. Conservation and research are allowed with permits. The proper upkeep of waterways and dikes continues. Emergency services have access. The management of public utilities is permitted. The hunting and fishing are under legal regulations.
Sections of the Rohr River have natural banks. Willows, alders, and dense reeds grow along the river. The kingfisher hunts for fish here. The otter also calls this area home.
The Rohrniederung has large populations of the rare water soldier plant. The green mosaic dragonfly lays its eggs on this plant. Ringed snakes and rare fish species live here too. These include the crucian carp.
Walking paths crisscross the Rohrniederung. Visitors can explore its beauty. However, some rules help protect the wildlife. Stay on the paths. Respect any restricted areas. Keep dogs leashed. Refrain from flying kites or drones. Do not pick any plants. Take all trash with you.
The Rohrniederung is a place of constant change. Seasonal floods once shaped this landscape. Today, dams and a water wheel control the water level. These ensure a stable water supply, even during dry periods.
Remember the importance of balance. Nature and human needs can coexist. The Rohrniederung shows how. Its preservation depends on our respect. Its beauty enriches our lives.