In future, the yellow-bellied toad, great crested newt and many other species are set to multiply again on the grounds of the Chieming GC in southern Germany . The German Heinz Sielmann Foundation has created two amphibian ponds on the golf course near holes three and 13. They form an essential mosaic for the preservation of biodiversity in the region, as small bodies of water are scarce near Chieming. The foundation’s expertise is a significant asset to the golf course. Nature conservation has long been on the agenda For the golf club, the joint project with the foundation is the ideal complement: “We have been involved in nature conservation for 25 years and have already created many structures on our grounds. These include several bodies of water that serve the dual purpose of nature conservation and landscaping. Until now, however, we have not placed a strong focus on amphibian conservation,” explains Andrew Foyle, Head Greenkeeper at the golf club. “This project, therefore, complements our measures perfectly.”
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Greatest variety in the smallest area In its search for suitable nature conservation areas, the Heinz Sielmann Foundation came across the golf club and was welcomed with open hands, as Carl-Christian Wippermann, Head of Sielmann’s Southern Bavaria Biotope Network, explains: “The willingness to cooperate was remarkable right from the start. We are very pleased about this, because small bodies of water, such as those created on the golf course in Chieming, are of great importance for biodiversity. They offer a wide variety of habitats and food sources for numerous animal and plant species in a very small area.” The Heinz Sielmann Foundation has been working to preserve biodiversity throughout Germany for over 30 years, including in Upper Bavaria since 2022. One focus is on amphibian conservation, particularly the renaturation and creation of new amphibian waters. “There aren’t that many small bodies of water in the project area around Chieming. The newly created ponds here are therefore an important mosaic for more biodiversity in the region,” explains Carl-Christian Wippermann.
Ethical value of the measures Information boards have been installed so that club members are aware of the reason for the measures. They explain the importance of the waters for the highly endangered amphibians and provide information on nature conservation facts. “Not only the entire board, but also our members are very supportive of the measures,” says Foyle, describing the mood. “The newly created bodies of water don’t affect the game at all, on the contrary, they provide a visual attraction in the landscape and represent a philosophy that fits perfectly with our club.” The financial outlay is limited and is gladly accepted: “The extra effort for maintenance is definitely worth it for us, because we see it as a priority to take responsibility for all of our areas.”
