Off to the Wild Islands of the Danube: The RAMSAR Traveling Exhibition in the Lech-Danube Region
From July 10 to August 23, 2026 , the traveling exhibition “Places Full of Life— Wetlands of International Importance in Germany” will be on displayat the Auenzentrum in Grünau Castle in Neuburg an der Donau.
In the Lech-Danube region, nature reveals its wildest side—a unique mosaic of branching river channels, sandy islands, and tranquil backwaters. Nature lives in tune with the rhythm of water—islands emerge and disappear, thus continually making room for new life. The Neuburg-Ingolstadt Floodplain Center—which includes the Floodplain Institute, the Floodplain Information Center, and the Floodplain Forum—is located in the heart of one of the most significant floodplain areas along the German Danube. This wetland of international importance, covering more than 4,000 hectares and designated in February 1976, stretches from the mouth of the Lech River to Neuburg. For 20 years now, the dedicated individuals here have been committed to floodplain research, educating the public, and sharing knowledge with stakeholders and policymakers.
What makes river islands so valuable?
They are valuable pieces of the mosaic in intact river ecosystems and provide ideal habitats for characteristic riverbank species such as beavers, kingfishers, sand martins, and the now-rare common sandpiper. They provide spawning grounds for rare fish species, a habitat for pioneer plants, and important resting places for migratory birds.
Germany has been a member of the Ramsar Regional Initiative Danube WILDislands since 2024. Together with ten countries along the Danube, we are working collaboratively on the sustainable protection and restoration of near-natural river islands. As a result, the Danube becomes the lifeline of a unique system of protected areas that ensures ecosystem services such as water purification and climate protection, preserves biodiversity, and provides opportunities to experience nature.
Exhibition information:
Website: Neuburg Wetlands Center | Ingolstadt at Grünau Castle
Address: Auenzentrum at Grünau Castle in Neuburg an der Donau
Hours:
Wed. Ms. 9 a.m.–12 p.m. and 1 p.m.–6 p.m., Sat. and Sun. 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Closed on Monday and Tuesday!
Contact: 0170-3355385 or 08421-9321 208
The exhibition’s next stop: September —Chiemsee