Hegering Geldern-Issum receives climate protection award for innovative wild animal rescue!

Hegering Geldern-Issum receives climate protection award for innovative wild animal rescue!

In the fight against the challenges of climate change, remarkable initiatives have been formed in the Issum region. Hegering Geldern-Issum e.V. was awarded the renowned Westenergie Climate Protection Prize, which has been supporting projects that show civic commitment to sustainability for 30 years. This year, the prize, which is endowed with 500 euros, honors the “Wildlife rescue with thermal imaging drone” project, which is not only an innovative approach to animal protection, but also makes a decisive contribution to agriculture by protecting animals from injury.

In the months between the end of April and the end of June, meadows in the area are scanned using drone technology to find hidden fawns and other young game. This means that between 40 and 60 fawns can be saved every year. Mayor Alexander Alberts highlights the role of such projects and emphasizes the need for role models in climate protection. Dirk Kranen, a committed volunteer at the association, explains how important this measure is for the future of animals and agriculture.

Modern technologies in use

The use of thermal imaging drones is a key component of this project. Such technology is not only efficient, but also offers high precision in searches. As the company SKYMODEL reports, thermal imaging cameras in drones are an innovative solution for finding fawns that are unprotected in the first weeks of life and ducking in the tall grass. This modern technology enables the animals to be rescued safely and makes the rescue process much more effective.

In 2025, the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture (BMEL) will also provide funding of 1.5 million euros to support the purchase of drones for fawn rescue. Nature conservation associations and hunting associations can submit applications to receive up to 4,000 euros per drone. In recent years, thousands of fawns have fallen victim to spring mowing and this initiative aims to change that.

A common goal: animal protection and agriculture

The commitment of various actors in the region to save wild animals is of great importance. The use of drones to rescue fawns is not only a technical achievement, but also a sign of conscious action in times of climate crisis. Modern drone technology is revolutionizing the way animal welfare and agriculture can be linked, benefiting both animals and farmers.

The numerous awarded projects as part of the Climate Protection Prize, of which over 9,000 have already been awarded since its inception, are a platform for creative solutions that aim to combat the global climate crisis at a local level. Westenergie, together with partner municipalities, is committed to future-oriented development in the areas of climate protection, education and social projects.

For the region around Issum, Hegering Geldern-Issum e.V. not only stands for innovative animal protection measures, but also for the potential that arises through cooperation and commitment in the community. At a time when protecting nature and animals is becoming increasingly important, this example could be an incentive for other communities and organizations to implement similar projects.

For more information about fawn rescue by drone and the associated funding opportunities, it is worth visiting the website SKYMODEL and BMEL.