A hill full of meadows and fields
The original forests on the Ještěd Ridge were gradually cut down in the past to make room for new fields and meadows. The forest remained only on sloping and poorly accessible places. This was the case until the middle of the last century.
But times have changed…
Spruce desert
In the second half of the 20th century, the mountain meadows were reforested, unfortunately more than 90% with spruce. The colorful mosaic of diverse habitats quickly turned into a spruce desert.
We didn’t want to leave it like that
We plant native tree species
Therefore, since 2004, we have been buying up local forest land, especially spruce monocultures. We then prune these stands and plant native tree species that are missing here in the lighted areas – firs, beeches, maples, elms, yews and others.
Nature is slowly recovering
Life is returning to the forest
The wind and birds also carry seeds of other plants to the lighted areas. Where there used to be only darkness, spruce needles and moss, today there is a diverse range of plants and animals. To support biodiversity, we have also started to regularly mow the small remnants of the original mountain meadows.
And what’s next?
Space for forest giants
Our long-term goal is to gradually return this place back to nature. We believe that one day, in 200-300 years, the forest giants will quietly look down on the valley here again, and it won’t be noticable that the local vegetation was once touched by a human hand. This is our small but concrete contribution to the restoration of European wilderness.
