As part of the nationwide German Forest Days 2026, the city of Gronau participated for the first time with its own day of events. From September 18 to 20, the diverse functions of forests will take center stage throughout Germany. Under the theme “Forests & Economy,” this year’s event will focus on the importance of forests for the environment, society, and the economy.
To kick off the German Forest Days on September 18, the forest belonged entirely to the fourth-graders from Gronau and Epe. In the Eper Bülten, a varied day of forest exploration with numerous interactive and hands-on stations awaited the children. The event was organized jointly by the City of Gronau and the Gronau-Epe Hunting Association, a local hunters’ group.
At a total of seven stations, the students were able to explore the forest from a wide variety of perspectives. The focus was not only on trees and plants, but above all on the many animals that live in and around the forest, as well as on the interconnections within the ecosystem.
For example, the children gained insights into the region’s fish life and learned which animals can be found in local waters. At the station on hunting with dogs, they were able to experience how important a hunting dog’s keen sense of smell is when tracking game. The food chain in the forest was also explained clearly: What does each animal eat, and how are the various creatures connected to one another?
Particularly impressive was the demonstration of how young animals are rescued from tall grass. It showed how animals and modern technology can work together to track down and protect young wild animals, for example, during mowing. Another station focused on the importance of trees. The children learned about the many roles trees play and why a healthy, species-rich forest is essential for both people and nature. Real animals were also part of the stations. For example, the students learned about the hunting behaviors of a hawk and a ferret. A special moment was when the children were allowed to pet the animals. This made it clear to them just how soft the animals’ feathers and fur are.
Finally, the hunting horns provided a special sound. Various signals were demonstrated and explained—and, of course, everyone had a chance to try them out for themselves.
The Forest Discovery Day thus vividly demonstrated just how diverse the forest habitat is and the responsibility involved in protecting it. Special thanks go to the team from the Gronau-Epe Hunting Association, whose dedication, expertise, and vivid examples made for an informative and exciting morning for the students.