Our apprentices are planting trees in Nenzing.
In April, apprentices from Getzner Textil AG swapped their tools for shovels and seedlings: on company-owned forest land in Nenzing, they planted 400 climate-resilient trees.
The day began in the forest for the apprentices.
After a short introduction by forestry specialist and forest educator Günter Dünser, they got straight to work: on approximately 3,000 square meters of woodland owned by Getzner Holding, they planted tree species such as sycamore maple, Norway maple, field maple, Scots pine, small-leaved lime, and wild cherry. The selection focused deliberately on site-appropriate species that are resilient to future climate conditions.
At midday, everyone gathered around a campfire to enjoy a barbecue together. The apprentices and their trainers experienced a day that not only offered a welcome change from their daily routine, but also strengthened environmental awareness and team spirit.
The reason behind the reforestation
The area near the Meng was severely affected by ash dieback. Around 150 cubic meters of damaged timber had to be felled for safety reasons. The resulting gaps in this protective and productive forest made reforestation necessary.
Franz Ruch, regional forest inspector, explains:"Targeted reforestation was needed on at least 3,000 square meters to ensure the long-term stability and biodiversity of the forest area."
Forest, Water, Economy
The forest areas on the outskirts of Nenzing are owned by Getzner Holding for good reason. As early as the 19th century, the company’s founders secured forest and water rights – forming the basis for energy, raw materials, and strategic location advantages. Municipal archivist Thomas Gamon gave the apprentices a glimpse into that time: “The founders were forward-thinking businessmen. Acquiring forest land gave them access to firewood and construction timber – and the water rights enabled the use of hydropower for the company’s energy supply.” To this day, four company-owned hydroelectric power plants are in operation – a clear sign that sustainability has long been a tradition at Getzner.
