Landsberg, Germany: First Blue Rangers

Water Protection: Twelve young people from the Landsberg district became Germany’s first “Blue Rangers.”

These young individuals are actively engaged with the precious resource of water. The “Blue Ranger” program could set a precedent elsewhere.

The participants analyzed water samples, inspected drinking fountains, and visited springs and sewage treatment plants. They played, learned, marveled, and, above all, understood how important every drop of water is for the future. Now, their commitment is being rewarded. On Saturday, September 27, twelve young people from the Landsberg district will be honored as Germany’s first “Blue Rangers” in an official ceremony where they will receive a certificate and a cool cap.

What began in Landsberg in 2024 could set a precedent throughout Germany. According to a press release, the “Blue Ranger” program turns young people aged ten and above into real water experts. In a variety of themed courses, the Blue Rangers learn about ecological relationships and actively engage with their region, its rivers, and the natural treasure that is water in creative, athletic, and practical ways. The goal is for the young rangers to become ambassadors for their homeland. They will understand how water systems work, know their rivers and forests personally, and be aware of how floods and droughts affect their community.

The Blue Rangers are encouraged to take responsibility and get involved.

Landsberg is a member of the global “Blue Community” movement, a network of cities that protect water as a public resource. According to a press release, the city is setting new standards with its Blue Ranger program. “We are looking forward to engaging young people with water expertise,” says Doro Heckelsmüller, co-initiator of the program. “The Blue Rangers learn how to get involved and take responsibility through public drinking fountains, living river meadows, deep-rooted trees, and water retention options in urban and rural areas.”

On Saturday, September 27, starting at 2 p.m. at the Landsberg wildlife park, the graduates will be honored and all participants in the Blue Ranger courses will celebrate their commitment to water. Before the certificates are presented, everyone will work together once again to build water retention landscapes. These natural systems of hollows, embankments, and plantings collect rainwater, prevent flooding, and store it for dry periods. This will be followed by a ceremonial award presentation by city and district representatives and a joint celebration with families and friends. (AZ)

Source: Landsberger Tagblatt (German)