Since 2008, the Grand Duke has actively supported the Fondation Hëllef fir d'Natur by granting it his High Patronage. Every year, he explores a new nature reserve managed by the Foundation, where he discovers ongoing projects and conservation efforts.
Welcomed by Mr. Patrick Losch, President of the Fondation Hëllef fir d'Natur, and Mr. Jeff Gangler, Mayor of the municipality of Boulaide, HRH the Grand Duke made an official visit to the Foundation's land in Surré, in the heart of the Oesling. Accompanied by Mr. Serge Wilmes, Minister of the Environment, Climate and Biodiversity, and Mrs. Martine Hansen, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Viticulture, the sovereign discovered ecological restoration, biodiversity preservation, and climate change mitigation projects, while engaging with local stakeholders committed to these initiatives.
This visit highlighted four major projects:
• Cactus Blummewiss – Restoring wildflower meadows. The Cactus Blummewiss project, led by the Fondation Hëllef fir d'Natur in partnership with Cactus S.A., is restoring 25 hectares of wildflower meadows in Surré. In response to the degradation of 80% of natural habitats in Europe, it relies on sustainable agricultural practices such as late mowing and moderate grazing to promote biodiversity. An educational trail will soon be set up to raise public awareness of the importance of these rich and fragile environments.
• LIFE ArdennEislek – Restoring and connecting cross-border habitats. Launched in 2025, LIFE ArdennEislek brings together Natagora (Belgium), the Fondation Hëllef fir d'Natur, and natur&ëmwelt (Luxembourg) to restore and connect several thousand hectares of Natura 2000 habitats between the Belgian Ardennes and the Luxembourg Eislek. The project creates ecological corridors and restores open habitats and rare forests, which are essential for endangered species. Funded 67% by the European Union, it strengthens biodiversity and ecosystem resilience.
• Horizont Climatic – Supporting landscape transformation. Horizont Climatic studies and supports the adaptation of Greater Region landscapes to climate change. In collaboration with local authorities, residents, and managers, it develops tools, observatories, and activities to better understand changes and anticipate challenges. This project is part of a global strategy, complementing Luxembourg's "Landscapes" master plan, to preserve landscape diversity and enhance its ecological and social resilience.
• Planzt Mat! – Participatory reforestation in Surré. Launched by the Fondation Hëllef fir d'Natur with the support of the Luxemburger Wort, Planzt Mat! addresses the destruction of Luxembourg's forests caused by bark beetles and global warming. This project targets the Surré area, devastated by clear-cutting, to replant a variety of trees and create more diversified and resilient forests. It invites the public to actively support planting, protection, and maintenance to preserve forest biodiversity.
Throughout the morning, HRH the Grand Duke was able to appreciate the remarkable work of the Fondation Hëllef fir d'Natur, interacting with its experts, project partners, and committed local stakeholders. Visibly enthusiastic, the sovereign praised the quality of the field conservation initiatives and the civic engagement they inspire.
The visit concluded with speeches by Mr. Serge Wilmes and Mrs. Martine Hansen, who praised the exemplary nature and tangible impact of the Foundation in protecting Luxembourg's biodiversity.
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