By focusing on biodiversity, i.e. the variety of regional species and ecosystems, we are once again being an example for the region and for local environmental protection. In close cooperation with farmers, flower patches are being planted next to individual grain fields. These flower patches are being created in addition to the legal (greening) requirements. In order for them to be especially effective for animals and plants, these flower patches are several metres wide and actually remain in place until the beginning of September – instead of being removed with the harvest. The seed and costs for tilling these areas are borne by the mill, and the farmers receive a compensation payment from us to cover their working expenses.
The Plange Mühle convinced Johannes Paas of the Schimmershof farm in Ratingen to create a flower patch measuring 6.9575 hectares (17 acres). A flower mix for honey plants was sown. Marigolds, cornflowers, poppies, sunflowers, and various types of clover and seradella are currently in flower. All these plants provide protection and food for domestic insects and small animals.