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Goose dispute in East Frisia: 81-year-old threatens the end for his animals!
An 81-year-old goose farmer in Aurich faces a ban on keeping animals as neighbors and supporters mobilize.
Goose dispute in East Frisia: 81-year-old threatens the end for his animals!
In the tranquil town of Marienhafe, Lower Saxony, 81-year-old Ludwig Smidt is currently fighting for his geese, which have grown dear to him over many years. The goose farmer, who has been herding animals on his property for decades, is facing an existential threat. Complaints from neighbors about noise and smells have prompted the Aurich district to examine the legality of keeping animals. According to the regulations for a “general residential area”, the limits for keeping animals are clearly defined, and geese, roosters and ducks could be classified as too noisy, as NDR reports.
The situation alarmed not only Smidt himself, but also the entire neighborhood. In order to defend his purpose in life, which he previously describes as his “friends”, the concerned goose owner has already reduced the number of his animals to 15. But that doesn't seem to be enough to convince the authorities. Smidt has until September 2, 2025 to submit his opinion before a final decision is made.
Neighborhood solidarity and public support
The community is reacting to the impending decision with remarkable solidarity: an online petition initiated by Anni Stomberg has already collected over 50,000 signatures. Many neighbors support Smidt and believe the geese are not a nuisance. “It breaks your heart,” says one resident, describing the tense feelings surrounding this matter. A demonstration in support of Smidt is already planned for August 26th, which clearly shows how much this case affects the rural identity and contact with nature in the community, highlights AZ.
Despite the growing public pressure, the Aurich district remains unimpressed and emphasizes that its decisions are based on current legal regulations. According to animal protection law, which regulates the protection of animals from abuse and cruelty in Germany, everyone involved must be heard. In this context, the district plans to hold discussions with Smidt and the neighbors to find an appropriate solution.
A longer fight?
For many in the region, there is a lot at stake. Smidt, who has over 40 years of experience keeping geese, sees the possible consequences of the decision as a threat not only to his geese, but also to his life's work. Resistance to the authorities is strongly felt on social networks, and support for Smidt is widely shared. It's clear that this story goes beyond geese and also brings into focus issues of animal welfare and rural identity.
The district's final decision is expected in the second half of 2025. Until then, the future of the geese and Ludwig Smidt remains uncertain, but the solidarity of his neighbors continues to give him and his family hope.