The city of Dresden wants to continue relying on animal helpers to maintain the Elbe meadows. Since 1992, around 600 Schwarzkopf and Suffolk sheep have ensured that the meadows are in good condition and can be used to relax. Shepherd Steffen Vogel now wants to retire, but has already found a successor, the town announced. Eric Fischer will take over the care of the sheep this year.
Elbe meadows are home to protected species
"The careful grazing of the Elbe meadows is very important for nature conservation in the landscape conservation area. Protected species of flora and fauna, such as the corncrake and the meadow blue, have been living in the Elbe meadows for many years," explained Eva Jähnigen (Greens), Mayor of the Environment. The sheep and their shepherd would make an important contribution to the preservation of valuable biotopes as well as to the preservation of a beautiful cultural landscape in the middle of the city.
