Expedition to my homeland: The Scharlenbach Valley-Hofwald Nature Reserve

**Excursion with the Tübingen Regional Council** The Scharlenbachtal-Hofwald nature reserve near Starzeln is characterized by its particularly high level of biodiversity. From dry grasslands to wet fens, it is home to a wide variety of habitats, which in turn are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Many animal and plant species can still be found here that have long since disappeared elsewhere. These include inconspicuous highlights such as the mountain crowned moth, the narrow snail, and Davall's sedge. That is why the idyllic valley was declared a nature reserve more than 20 years ago. On a short circular hike, we will learn about the special features of the nature reserve and discover how complex the interaction between soil, water, climate, animals, plants, and humans can be. Much has changed in the Scharlenbach Valley in recent years. Some changes have been positive, but others have been negative. Based on the measures taken in recent years, we will explain how global changes are also noticeable locally and how the nature conservation authorities are counteracting them. This "expedition into our homeland" gives nature lovers of all ages the opportunity to rediscover the landscape on their doorstep and to engage in conversation with the nature conservation authorities.