Nature Experience Projects 2018

From June 25 to June 27, 2018, the annual Hainich Project for grade 5 students at Ernst-Abbe-Gymnasium Eisenach took place once again. As in previous school years, the students spent all three days actively engaged at various stations throughout the Hainich forest, learning about the “primeval forest in the heart of Germany” right on their doorstep.

At the Wildcat Village in Hütscheroda, students had the opportunity to experience the mascot of the Hainich, the wildcat, up close. They learned about the animal's lifestyle and the importance of species protection. Trying to “sneak like a wildcat” turned out to be a fun challenge that all students embraced with great enthusiasm.
Near the treetop walkway, students were allowed to leave the designated trails during a guided hike and explore the primeval forest of Hainich. They discovered not only the biodiversity found in deadwood but also gained insights into the origin of the soil that forms the basis of the Hainich ecosystem. Searching for fossils in the shell limestone was the highlight of this part of the excursion.

On one of the three days, the treetop walkway itself was the main focus. At dizzying heights of 20 to 40 meters, the students observed the diversity of life in the forest canopy. The most impressive experience was learning how flexibly trees respond to strong wind: students could move a branch near the walkway and were amazed to see the entire tree sway in response to absorb the motion and prevent breakage.