The Woeste is a fen. These very nutrient-rich sites (pH ratio between 3.2 and 7.5), also known as rich moors, include most of the moors still growing in Central Europe today. Geologists estimate the age of the Woeste fen to be around 10,000 years. The peat layer there is between 50 cm and 3 m thick. The landscape of the Woeste is characterized by its diversity. Open water areas, near-natural stream areas, peat bogs, large sedge meadows, large reed beds, wet and damp meadows, fat pastures, arable land and copses alternate here.
Originally, the green areas along the Ahse and the Woestegraben were used for livestock farming to ensure the Osting and Bettinghausen residents' milk and meat supply. In 1969, the picture changed dramatically. With the discovery of black peat in the "Woeste fen" and its proven medicinal properties, the meadows took on a new significance. Every year, around 3000 cubic meters of fen peat were extracted for the spa and processed for natural peat treatments (baths, peat packs and peat kneading). Today, only smaller quantities are extracted. In the "MedyWell" therapy department, the processed peat is offered in the form of packs and for kneading, and
the first open water areas were created in 1971 as a result of the extraction of the peat and the backfilling of the peat pockets. Due to the formation of reed beds, agricultural use of the land is no longer possible. The Woeste wetland provides an important habitat for many different animal and plant species. For example, the area is populated by marsh harriers, Montagu's harriers, hen harriers, tree falcons, sparrowhawks, snipes, red-backed shrikes, corn buntings, rooks, wagtails, lapwings, cranes, curlews, spoonbills and green ducks, greylag geese and muskrats. These include 28 species that are on the Red Listers of Germany or North Rhine-Westphalia. Protected species such as garganey and spoonbill ducks or the tree frog are just a few examples. New species are discovered every year. With the designation of the Woeste as a nature reserve and its recognition as part of the EU NATURA 2000 network of sites, the growing importance of the Woeste fens in terms of nature conservation has been taken into account, and
in recent years the Woeste nature reserve has become a popular destination for excursions. Numerous activities, such as the removal of fences or the installation of benches, have created an exciting nature education and adventure area. Saline Bad Sassendorf GmbH also erected a wayside cross. Galloways, Scottish Highland cattle and water buffalo have been introduced to graze the areas, and
our special tip: you can get to the Woeste quickly and easily by bike! Take your time and - if possible - bring binoculars. Enjoy the fascinating view over the nature conservation area from the new viewing platform. Information boards provide you with information about some of the animal and plant species that can be seen there
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- Landgasthof Vogt, Lange Straße 44, Bad Sassendorf-Bettinghausen
- Ostinghausen cemetery
- Ostinghausen community center, Schulstraße 2b
