Field Workshop “A path through fields and forests to the edge of Western Roztocze”

 On 23 June 2026, the second field workshop in the series “Academic walks with the nature of Poland” took place as part of the AIM – Attracting International Minds. Lubelska Sieć NAWA-EURAXESS project, in which the University of Life Sciences in Lublin is a partner. The event brought together academic staff and doctoral students from the partner institutions participating in the project, including international participants.

The workshop, entitled “A path through fields and forests to the edge of Western Roztocze”, was organised in Zakrzew, a village located on the border of the Western Roztocze region. The field walk was led by Dr Eng. Sławomir Michałek, who introduced the participants to the characteristics of the local landscape, its spatial structure, soil diversity and the distinctive mosaic of cultivated fields. An important part of the workshop was devoted to private forests, including discussions on the dominant tree species and accompanying vegetation.

The walk concluded at the edge of the Roztocze region, offering a panoramic view of its characteristic rolling landscape and picturesque mosaic of fields, meadows and agricultural land. On the way back, the participants also visited a First World War cemetery, where they learned about the historical background of the military operations that had taken place in this area. The combination of natural and historical themes provided a broader, interdisciplinary perspective on the landscape of Western Roztocze.

The trip offered not only an opportunity to expand knowledge and exchange experiences but also fostered the integration of the academic community. The shared field activity enabled participants to get to know one another better in an informal setting, build relationships based on cooperation and common interests, and establish new international connections.

The event was accompanied by a friendly atmosphere, and the effort involved in the hike across varied terrain brought participants both satisfaction and a sense of time well spent. The workshop successfully combined educational, cognitive and recreational values, leaving participants with positive impressions and motivation to take part in future initiatives organised within the project.