Quarzsand Nudersdorf (Möllersdorf mining field, Germany)

Challenge the practice is addressing: The extraction of near-surface raw materials undoubtedly means an intervention in nature. However, this is usually only temporary and much lower than generally assumed. A main pillar of economic activity in the field of gravel & sand is the recultivation of the claimed areas. In many cases, the space used for extraction activities is returned to the general public in a higher quality due to recultivation activities. New biotope types with an underamt of diversity of flora and fauna are emerging that has to be protected.

Concrete practice to achieve the expected goal: To protect steep wall breeders, a special steep wall was build where they can raise their offspring- For this purpose, a valley was created in the western part of the open pit an a steep face popular with bank swallows was designed in the southern orientation, which is cut every year and which is gladly accepted. For the toad, a small water complex has been created. Also for the amphibian species, a shallow water area was established. The creation of several different small bodies of water (different size and profile) ensure new offspring for the existing population every season. In the deeper waters, individual crested and pond newts could also be found sporadically. The entire area also benefits the river plovers as a hunting ground.

Expected impact/goal of the practice: The extraction in the Möllersdorf mining field resulted in a succession of different habitats: In the older areas, deeper open-cast mining waters, some with small islands, remained a paradise for water frogs, dragonflies and the river plover. Other areas with little vegetation offer a habitat as a raw soil location for the two wasteland scarecrow species Blue-winged Sand Scarecrow and Blue-winged Wasteland Scarecrow.

Who is the target user group of the practice/intervention or implementing the practice/intervention? This practice is for companies in the extractive industries.