Naturhistorischer Verein der Rheinlande und Westfalens (NHV)

About us

The Rhineland and Westfalia Natural History Society (NHV) was founded in 1843, making it the oldest natural history association in Germany.

The aim of the society is the ideal advancement of research in the fields of zoology, botany and geology. The subjects traditionally covered by the NHV encompass systematic, taxonomic, biogeographic and ecological themes. Further subject areas are geology, palaeontology, soil science, physical geography and other related disciplines. Nature conservancy is the overriding and most important field. That is anchored firmly in our constitution. Another focal point is the investigation and documentation of species (biodiversity).

Activities:
• The NHV organises conferences and excursions: there are two conferences a year – one in the summer months, which takes place in various locations and a winter conference in Bonn, at the Society's headquarters. The winter conference includes the AGM, when the committee is elected. In addition, numerous natural science excursions are offered.
• The NHV has various publications: those which appear in the society's magazines DECHENIANA and DECHENIANA on the above-mentioned topics usually have a clear connection to the society's region. This includes North Rhine Westphalia, large parts of Rhineland-Palatinate as well as Saarland. Articles from neighbouring regions are also welcome. Every member can publish their natural science work in the DECHENIANA.
• The NHV owns a large library: the society maintains a comprehensive and very valuable library, with several hundred magazines and series of journals, which have been acquired through exchanges or bequests. Many of these go back far into the 19th century. Members can read the latest edition of many current publications in reading rooms at our head office.
• working groups of experts in special areas of interest have been formed within the society: the Working Group of Rhineland Coleopterists (beetle specialists) has existed for many years. They meet regularly, and organise additional excursions. Mycology Working Group: this group is dedicated to the study of the many types of fungus to be found in the Rhineland.
• The Rhineland Herb Collection: this is the NHV's botanical collection. The herbs have been collected from the former Prussian Rhine Province. With its approx. 70,000 exhibits of higher plants from the period 1805 to 1935, this is the most significant collection of ferns and flowering plants in this region. It contains numerous original exhibits of newly described species and is at the same time an important archive for documenting changes in biodiversity.
• NHV participation in the UN Biodiversity Day in Bonn.

Hermann-Josef Roth is the President of the Rhineland and Westphalia Natural History Society.

On request we can offer other net participants advice, give a presentation, and provide up-to-date information and contacts in the field of our work.