Attending the 12th Visitor Monitoring and Management Conference (MMV12) at Camp Reinsehlen in the Lüneburger Heath in Germany was an experience that surpassed the traditional boundaries of academic events. The location, a serene and striking landscape, became more than just a backdrop—it actively shaped the learning process and fostered a unique atmosphere of collaboration and discovery. Situated away from the distractions of the nearby town Schneverdingen, our accommodation and conference facilities were seamlessly integrated into the landscape, creating an ideal environment for both focused discussions and relaxed, informal exchanges.
One of the most compelling aspects of the conference was the opportunity to learn about the region's history of human interaction with nature. The Lüneburger Heath has been shaped over centuries, with human activities such as sheep herding, grazing and farming playing a crucial role in maintaining its unique landscape. This historical context added depth to our discussions about the modern challenges of land management and conservation, as we examined how past practices continue to influence the environment today.
Exploring Land Management and Conservation with Ranger Jan Brockmann
Besides the many exciting talks during the conference, one of the highlights of our stay was the chance to explore the landscape. There was the opportunity to join field trips organized by local guides. Ranger Jan Brockmann led one such field trip. Jan guided us through the heath, sharing his extensive land management and conservation knowledge. Walking through the heath, we learned about the delicate balance required to preserve its biodiversity. Without careful management, the landscape would gradually return to the forest, losing its distinctive heathland character. This process is prevented mainly by grazing Heidschnucke sheep, a traditional breed that has coexisted with the heath for centuries. The sheep play an essential role in maintaining the open landscape, and their presence is a living testament to the region’s cultural and ecological history. These hikes were not merely walks in nature—they were informative experiences that connected directly with the themes of the conference.
Jan’s insights into the history and ecology of the heathland provided a comprehensive understanding of how this landscape has been shaped and maintained over the centuries. One of the key messages from Jan’s field trips was the importance of educating visitors about their role in conservation. By helping visitors understand the delicate balance between human activity and nature, land managers can foster more sustainable practices that protect these fragile ecosystems for future generations.
Fostering Connection Through Nature and Art
Besides the field trips, there were other ways for us to interact with the landscape. There were various artworks scattered throughout that invited visitors to interact with their surroundings in new ways. One such piece was Spaces, an installation by artist Jörg-Werner Schmidt. This artwork, a former transformer station painted in red and white stripes, seemed to disappear under the midday sun, creating an optical illusion that blurred the boundaries between nature and human-made structures. As the air shimmered in the heat, the building seemed to disappear, merging with the landscape.
Danish artist Jeppe Hein’s interactive sculptures were another exciting landscape feature. His unconventional benches twisted and turned in unexpected ways, transforming the simple act of sitting into an experience. By altering the form of these everyday objects, Hein encourages interaction and social exchange, drawing attention to the ways in which design can shape human behavior. These artworks were perfect examples of how art can spark curiosity, invite participation and trigger exploration of the landscape.
The Role of Location in Enhancing Learning
In many ways, the location of the MMV12 conference was integral to its success. The Lüneburger Heath offered both inspiration and real-world examples of the issues we were there to discuss. From the tranquility of the camp to the thought-provoking artworks scattered throughout the landscape, every element of the heath contributed to the conference’s atmosphere of reflection and exploration.
The field trips underscored the importance of hands-on experience in understanding land management and conservation. By walking through the landscape and seeing the results of years of careful management, we were able to connect theory with practice in a way that would not have been possible in a more traditional conference setting.
In conclusion, the Lüneburger Heath provided a unique and immersive environment for the MMV12 conference, allowing participants to engage with the landscape in meaningful ways. The synergy between location and conference themes deepened our understanding of visitor management and conservation, highlighting the power of place in shaping both the atmosphere and outcomes of academic discourse. We couldn’t have wished for a better start of our PhD projects and we’re looking forward to sharing our progress in a future blogpost.