Background and Objectives
Hedges can fulfil important functions in the agricultural landscape, for example in terms of biodiversity, the connectivity of habitats, and protection against erosion and wind. At the same time, there are various challenges associated with their new planting, for example with regard to agricultural use, maintenance, legal requirements and administrative procedures.
As part of this Master’s thesis, exemplary scenarios for the establishment of new hedgerows in the agricultural landscape of Saxony-Anhalt are to be developed and examined in terms of their respective opportunities, challenges, and advantages and disadvantages.
The thesis is based on three sources of information: (1) the results of a survey already conducted amongst various stakeholders on the opportunities and obstacles involved in the creation of new hedgerows in the agricultural landscape of Saxony-Anhalt; (2) independent research into the legal and administrative framework, in particular regarding relevant requirements, responsibilities, authorisation procedures and administrative hurdles relating to the planting, use and maintenance of hedgerows, (3) scientific studies and specialist literature on the ecological, agricultural and, where applicable, socio-economic impacts of hedgerows.
Tasks
As part of the Master’s thesis, the following are to be undertaken:
• the existing survey results are to be systematically analysed and key opportunities, obstacles and stakeholder interests identified,
• the relevant legal framework as well as regulatory and administrative requirements are to be researched and presented in a structured manner,
• exemplary scenarios for different conditions for the establishment of new hedgerows be developed,
• the scenarios be compared on the basis of selected criteria and evaluated using a pros and cons analysis.
Requirements
We are looking for a committed student enrolled on a suitable Master’s programme, e.g. Agricultural Sciences, Landscape Planning/Ecology, Nature Conservation, Environmental Sciences or Geography.
The following would be advantageous: an interest in agricultural landscapes and nature conservation, a structured approach to work, and the motivation to familiarise oneself independently with legal and regulatory frameworks.
Main working period: 2027. Latest possible submission deadline: 31 January 2028
Contact: Dr Olga Fishkis, Institute for Sugar Beet Research, fishkis@ifz-goettingen.de.