Goats for Rottwerndorf Castle: Fight against wild growth started!
Martin Kusic fights for the renovation of Rottwerndorf Castle in Pirna to counter invasive plants with goats.

Goats for Rottwerndorf Castle: Fight against wild growth started!
What is going on in Rottwerndorf? In the picturesque Pirna, Martin Kusic, the owner of the castle there, is planning exciting steps to save the forgotten building and his park. One of the biggest challenges are the invasive plants, which now have a strong overgrown over the ground. According to a report by Saxon Kusic notes that these plants are displacing native species and must be combated urgently.
In order to cope with the wild growth, Kusic plans the fencing of the site and wants to use goats and sheep. From August, these animal helpers will find their new home in the Schlosspark, where the consent of monument protection is also required for these projects. The condition of the castle itself also shows action: five gables and the roof have been renewed in recent years, with a quarter of the facade being renovated. Kusic himself invested a six -figure sum in the renovation, supported by funding.
Refurbishment plans for the Schlosspark
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 of bad parents. A cost estimate for the facade work amounts to around 500,000 euros, and Kusic hopes for further funding. However, the city of Pirna currently has other priorities in terms of financing. An emergency protection of the damaged garden house fails due to the financing: Here, 35,000 euros are required for the roof. The city is looking for cheaper variants, but has preferred other projects.
Kusic is faced with challenges because the city managers currently do not give the Schlosspark a high priority. Nevertheless, he remains optimistic and hopes not only the structural conditions with his commitment, but also the community to strengthen the castle. The idea of developing the former manor house in the back site for barrier -free apartments shows that Kusic also has an eye on the needs of today.
The renovation measures for Rottwerndorf Castle and his park are an example of how historical sites in times of climate change and urban development have to be rethought. The exchange between science and practice is of central importance, as explained in the manual for climate adjustment and the measures of the German Federal Environmental Foundation (DBU), which under DBU can be found. Only with a holistic approach can we preserve the history and nature of our cities and at the same time meet modern standards.