New life in Österlen's old apple orchards

Forgotten orchards in Österlen held unexpected treasures – biodiversity, cultural heritage and future opportunities.

The project aimed to investigate whether Österlen's older orchards, mainly apple orchards, could be restored and preserved as biologically rich cultural environments with value for the landscape and possible new uses. The focus was on spreading knowledge to owners, users, entrepreneurs and the general public about the cultural-historical, biological and aesthetic values of the orchards, and to explore opportunities for small-scale fruit growing and processing as an economic driver.

The project carried out a number of activities: mapping and GIS registration of fruit orchards in Österlen, advice to owners, restoration and maintenance of three older orchards, and dissemination of knowledge through guided tours, workshops and publication of articles. General care advice and a cost template for the care of older orchards were developed. The project collaborated with several actors, including Simrishamn Municipality, the County Administrative Board and the University of Gothenburg, and received a lot of positive attention in the media.

The project contributed to increased knowledge and awareness of the value of older orchards for biodiversity and cultural heritage. A GIS layer documented the orchards, advice led to concrete conservation efforts, and workshops strengthened the commitment of professionals. Conservation efforts yielded positive ecological results for red-listed species in restored areas. Although financial obstacles and lack of interest from larger producers limited the impact, the project created a basis for continued dialogue and activities such as courses, must production, and sustainable management of older orchards.

Read the project group's knowledge compilation by clicking on the image below!

This project, which wants to reuse abandoned apple groves, will contribute to increased biodiversity and to preserving the cultural heritage in the area. The project also has good conditions to create and spread important knowledge about the value of old cultural plantations as ecological hotspots and at the same time be able to contribute with new recreation and production environments for, for example, new businesses or activities. The project will thus engage and benefit many actors, such as landowners, entrepreneurs and residents. But it will also be able to contribute to strengthening Österlen as a brand and thus benefit the entire tourism industry.