In the Ark Region near Frankenau, rare and endangered domestic animal breeds are preserved, protected and bred. The “Ark Region” award is given by the “Society for the Preservation of Old and Endangered Domestic Animal Breeds”. There are now over 50 different Red List species around Frankenau.
Arche region Kellerwald
Welcome to Hesse's first Arche region!
Frankenau has been an Ark Region since 2014, making it only the second region in Germany to be designated as dedicated to protecting the landscape and the ancient breeds.
Many breeders participate in conservation breeding programs and organize themselves into associations or communities. The exchange of breeding animals is essential for preserving heritage breeds. These breeders are highly committed, driven by idealism and passion. They are active regionally and nationally to showcase their animals and ensure genetic exchange. The Red List includes animal species ranging from bees to horses. Within each farm animal species, there is at least one endangered breed (Red List of farm animal breedsIn Hesse, various funding opportunities are used to support owners of old livestock breeds.
Old domestic animal breeds - natural landscape gardeners
Sheep, goats, horses and cows are used by local farmers to look after the species-rich grassland. In accordance with their selective feeding habits, the roughage-eating animals graze in a location-specific manner. Due to the different conditions, careful attention is paid to the suitability of the animal species and breed when selecting them. As steppe animals, horses are primarily used in drier locations with old grass stands. Sheep and goats are particularly light and are often used for grazing where little or no trampling damage is desired. There are various grazing concepts whereby different plants can be promoted or deliberately displaced.
News from the Arche Region
Avian influenza & bluetongue disease
We are also feeling the effects of bird flu in the Ark region…
Contact the Arche Association
Arche-Region Kellerwald, Frankenau and surroundings eV
Ehlingshäuser Str. 1
35110 Frankenau
Contact person at the Kellerwald-Edersee Nature Park
Martin Kraft
Project Manager Arche-Region