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Goats for Rottwerndorf Castle: Fight against wild growth started!
Martin Kusic is fighting for the renovation of Rottwerndorf Castle in Pirna to counteract invasive plants with goats.
Goats for Rottwerndorf Castle: Fight against wild growth started!
What's happening in Rottwerndorf? In picturesque Pirna, Martin Kusic, the owner of the castle there, is planning exciting steps to save the forgotten structure and its park. One of the biggest challenges are the invasive plants that are now causing the area to become heavily overgrown. According to a report by Saxon Kusic notes that these plants are displacing native species and must be combated urgently.
In order to control the wild growth, Kusic plans to fence in the area and wants to use goats and sheep. These animal helpers will find their new home in the castle park from August, where approval from the monument protection authority is also required for these projects. The condition of the castle itself also shows a need for action: in recent years, five gables and the roof have already been replaced, with a quarter of the facade being renovated. Kusic himself invested a six-figure sum in the renovation, supported by funding.
Renovation plans for the castle park
The castle park, which belongs to the city of Pirna and is a listed building, also has its own challenges to overcome. The park was once set in beautiful English parkland, but has suffered greatly and is in desperate need of rejuvenation. Martin Kusic, who moved to Rottwerndorf in 2011, would like to return not only the castle but also the park to its original condition. Problems such as a badly damaged garden house after a tree fell on it and an overgrown area with a neglected juice press are on his list.
A support association for Rottwerndorf Castle is intended to set the course for sustainable renovation. The founding event is planned for October. Supporters can contribute their ideas and help here. There will be no public operations in the castle as Kusic himself lives part of the time there. Nevertheless, there is great interest from local residents in reviving the castle and the park together.
Financial realities
The costs for the renovation of the castle and the park are not bad. A cost estimate for the facade work is around 500,000 euros, and Kusic is hoping for further funding. However, the city of Pirna currently has other priorities when it comes to financing. An emergency backup of the damaged garden house fails due to financing: 35,000 euros are required for the roof. The city is looking for cheaper options, but has preferred other projects.
Kusic sees challenges because city officials are currently not giving the castle park a high priority. Nevertheless, he remains optimistic and hopes that his commitment will not only strengthen the structural conditions, but also the community around the castle. The idea of developing the former mansion in the rear area for barrier-free apartments shows that Kusic also has the needs of today in mind.
The renovation measures for Rottwerndorf Castle and its park are an example of how historical sites need to be rethought in times of climate change and urban development. The exchange between science and practice is of central importance, as explained in the handbook on climate adaptation and the measures of the German Federal Environmental Foundation (DBU), which can be found below DBU can be found. Only with a holistic approach can we preserve the history and nature of our cities while meeting modern standards.