Haarenniederung Nature Reserve

The nature reserve is in the west of Oldenburg. It includes a section of the lower reaches of the Haaren and the adjacent lowland areas. The Haaren is developed with predominantly steep banks. The banks are fortified with fascines in sections. The Haaren lowland is characterized by damp fallow land with tall herb meadows, swamps, reed beds and reed beds, in places with islands of wood and hedgerows. Parts of the lowland are used extensively as grassland.

"Haarenniederung" nature reserve
The protected area includes the lower reaches of the Haaren and the adjacent lowland areas, which are characterized by high groundwater levels or backwater levels. A diverse flora and fauna has developed here, some with rare and endangered species and plant communities that react sensitively to changes in use and impairment of the water balance and are therefore in particular need of protection.
The lowland area, which is criss-crossed by the typical, slow-flowing Haaren Geest, used to be used almost exclusively for grassland. Today larger sections have fallen fallow and are developing through reed beds and sedge reeds into willow bushes and alder beech forest.
In order to preserve the former meadow character, regular mowing work is required to preserve light-needing, rare marsh and meadow plants such as groundsel, buckthorn or yellow meadow rue. Marsh warblers, reed warblers, reed buntings and warblers breed in the reed beds of the former course of the Haaren.
The hiking trail that runs through the lowland area offers nature lovers numerous observation opportunities.
The NSG serves to protect the FFH area no. 237 "Haaren and Wold near Wechloy".