habitats - Basalt-Actien

Transcription

HABITATS
Sustainable restoration and renaturation
Basalt-Actien-Gesellschaft
Yellow-bellied Toad (Bombina variegate), (Photo: F. Thomas)
Title:
Wolfshagen Quarry (Photo: W. Grope)
Yellow-bellied Toad (Bombina variegate), (Photo: H. Himmler)
Biotope maintenance (Photo: W. Grope)
Peacock Butterfly (Inachis io), (Photo: C. Umbreit)
Information:
Basalt-Actien-Gesellschaft of Linz on the Rhine is
Germany’s largest operator of hard-stone quarries.
It produces over 52 million tonnes of aggregates
(2006) for the construction industry from 101 working quarries in Germany and 12 abroad. Over 300
asphalt mixing plants manufacture about 17 million
tonnes of asphalt.
FOREWORD
Habitats, a word with many uses, was purposefully chosen for the title of this
work. As the ten examples indicate, consideration of the habitats in our
company’s quarries does not have to be limited to those created by after-use
reclamation and regeneration.
Christoph Aumüller
Working quarries can also be a refuge for endangered species, a habitat which would otherwise not
be available to them in today’s agricultural managed countryside.
Colonization by the Yellow-bellied Toad runs like a
thread through many of the articles in this report. Its occurrence is a flagship for many other
threatened animals and plants, and highlights the
importance of working quarries as a refuge. The Yellow-bellied Toad would be doomed to extinction in
most parts of Germany were it not for the mineral
production industry.
The value of conservation provisions in a working
quarry, or plans for successful reclamation or restoration must, of course, be assessed individually
and compared against the initial situation before
excavation began. However, even critics of our industry admit that the special conditions created by
the new environment provide impetus for ecological enhancement of the area.
Man and nature are often depicted as rivals. Locking nature away can only result in further alienation. Initiatives such as ANUAL, an organization
enabling people to be involved in nature and
FOREWORD
environment conservation, are showing us the way
ahead.
One article deliberately at odds with the others is
the Stöffel Park project. A disused quarry processing plant is being lovingly restored as an industrial
heritage museum and is creating an environment
or adventure “habitat” in which geology and the
rapid changes in working conditions will be brought
to life.
I hope you enjoy reading this collection of reports
on a variety of aspects of “habitats” from across
Germany.
Christoph Aumüller
Technical Director
Contents
The natural treasure of the HINTERPLAG QUARRY, Dr. Paul Bergweiler
White Granite – the ETZ QUARRY, Ulrike Geise
SCHONUNGEN LIMESTONE QUARRY, Christine Meyer
Biodiversity in the GRAVENHORST SANDSTONE QUARRY, Martin A. Glöckner
Natural regeneration of the WOLFSHAGEN QUARRY, Stefan Dorstewitz and Anke Kätzel
EISENSTEINER KOPF – the multifunctional use of an open cast mine, Heiko Himmler
06—11
12—17
18—25
26—31
32—39
40—45
Gravenhorst
Wolfshagen
Hinterplag
Imhausen
Stöffel-Park
Schonungen
Pechsteinkopf
Eisensteiner Kopf
Albersweiler
Etz
Succession at PECHSTEINKOPF, Heiko Himmler
46—51
ALBERSWEILER – barren landscape as a habitat, Heiko Himmler
52—55
IMHAUSEN QUARRY – nature conservation by contract
in a working quarry, Burkhard Kern and Ralph Voigt
56—61
Stöffel Park – transformation of a basalt quarry to an industrial heritage site,
Dr. Michael Wuttke and Bernd Freihaut
62—73
The natural treasure of the
HINTERPLAG QUARRY
Dr. Paul Bergweiler (ANUAL – Asbach Nature and Environment Conservation
Research Group)
Dr. Paul Bergweiler
Born in 1954 in Olpe, awarded
a PhD in Biology in Cologne
in 1987. He heads the Federal
Ministry of Education and
Research’s project “Environment, Culture, Sustainability”,
is a member of ANUAL and
involved in various research
groups working to protect
owls and bats.
Fig. 1: Basalt columns in the disused Hinterplag Quarry (Photo: Robert Klein)
HINTERPLAG QUARRY
Fig. 2: An aerial perspective of the Hinterplag Quarry (Photo: Hans-Rainer Geiermann)
Bonn
Basaltic cone, quarry site, habitat. The distinctive
Asbach
basalt columns of the Hinterplag Kopf formed about
25 million years ago when flowing lava erupted
A3
Hinterplag
through cracks in the earth’s crust and cooled on its
Windhagen
surface. As a layer of mud dries into honeycomblike cracks, so shrinkage cracks formed in the cooling basalt, which then crept slowly down from the
surface and created the distinctive columns between
the cracks – in a particularly beautiful formation at
Rhein
A3
Hinterplag (Fig. 1 and 3)
Frankfurt
closed down for ever in the mid-eighties. The quarry
was now left to its own devices.
In 1988, members of ANUAL (Asbach Nature and EnFig. 3: Basalt columns in the quarry’s eastern section. The photo
shows the quarry crew of 1926. (Photo: Robert Klein archives)
vironment Conservation Research Group), a group
formed only a few years previously, discovered that
as a result of the restoration plan (afforestation and
The excellent qualities of this stone, such as its pres-
flooding) valuable amphibian spawning waters on
sure resistance and weatherability, made it a stone
the quarry bed had been lost. ANUAL consequently
much in demand for building foundations and cel-
made a more detailed census of the flora and fauna
lars in the region, even before 1600. However, its
at the quarry. The impressive biodiversity in such a
high specific weight made it difficult to transport
small area was sufficient to persuade the quarry’s
over long distances. After 1892 and the arrival of the
owner BAG, the local borough of Asbach, the Neu-
railways as a transport option, the increasing de-
wied country maintenance group and then finally
mand for new railroad lines, roads and dykes made
the Nature and Environment Landesstiftung founda-
quarrying generally economically viable, including
tion to protect and conserve this precious habitat.
the Hinterplag excavations.
Funds provided by the Rhineland-Palatinate Nature
and Environment Foundation and many local spon-
Following repeated periods of abandonment and
sors, finally enabled ANUAL to become the official
reanimation of quarrying, production was finally
owner of the Hinterplag Quarry in 2003 (Fig. 2).
EISENSTEINER KOPF
Fig. 4: A view from the quarry bed across to the east crag formation showing
the diversity of habitat. (Photo: Hans-Rainer Geiermann)
ANUAL is principally guided by the special environ-
sity, various “disturbances” such as rockfalls were
mental conditions of the quarry in maintaining and
constantly producing new habitats for pioneer spe-
developing the area. Whereas the landscape of the
cies (Fig. 5) both in the quarry walls and the newly
lower Westerwald Forest is generally composed of
fallen scree. Some of the disturbances are deliber-
gentle hills in a loose patchwork of woodland, mead-
ately introduced, e. g. cutting back woodland growth
ows, fields and villages, the quarry is an entirely
so a range of mainly themophilic pioneer plants and
different habitat of craggy rocks, scree and stony
animals could colonize, examples of which are ex-
ground with low levels of nutrients and a distinct
amined in more detail later.
area in the bed of the quarry where stagnant moisture causes water accumulation in pools (Fig. 4).
The plant world. A special feature of the quarry is its
large population of Heath Spotted Orchids. Several
Not so long ago, the quarry was a working quarry,
so the area was sparsely vegetated and in many corners the sun had created a Mediterranean-like microclimate. In addition to its existing habitat diver-
HINTERPLAG QUARRY
Fig. 5: A recent rockfall. The rockfall to the left in the photo happened a few years ago and has been colonized by diverse plants.
(Photo: Paul Bergweiler)
Fig. 9: A gloriously coloured male Sand Lizard (Lacerta agilis) in spring (Photo: Robert Klein)
hundred specimens dominate the carpet of flowers
in early summer (Fig. 6).
The significance of the Hinterplag Quarry habitat is
not simply defined by the number of species found
Fig. 7: Common Centaury (Centaurium erythraea), a member of
the gentian family and medicinal plant of 2004, grows in many
places in the quarry. (Photo: Robert Klein)
site, the Common or Viviparous Lizard (Fig. 8), the
Sand Lizard (Fig. 9) and the legless Slow Worm (Fig.
10).
Fig. 6: Population of Heath Spotted Orchids (Dactylorhiza maculate
agg.) in the western quarry bed (Photo: Paul Bergweiler)
here appearing on the Red List. Far more importantly, the biodiverse habitat of Hinterplag Quarry’s
mere 4 hectares is home to 223 species of vascular
plants. That is almost as many as Claus Mückschel
found in 2000 at the Hummelsberg Quarry, in an
area more than four times as large (224 species,
17 hectares). High biodiversity in a limited area was
the main reason for proposing conservation of this
quarry habitat.
Fig. 8: Common or Viviparous Lizard (Zootoca vivipara). Unusually,
it bears its young live and is able to inhabit cool areas (Photo: Peter
Schmidt)
Reptiles. As classic thermophilic species, it is princi-
Mention must also be made of the snakes, repre-
pally reptiles that have discovered the quarry habi-
sented by the Grass Snake and Smooth Snake.
tat. Three lizard species are commonly found at the
Fig. 11: A sunbathing Grass Snake (Natrix natrix). Its distinctive collar markings are clearly visible. Its opaque eyes
indicate it will soon shed its skin. (Photo: Peter Schmidt)
Fig. 10: Two Slow Worms (Anguis fragilis). Rather than the copper coloured examples
shown here, the Slow Worm tends to be grey. (Photo: Peter Schmidt)
Fig. 12: A small Smooth Snake specimen (Coronella
austriaca). Its characteristic head marking is quite
clear in this photo. (Photo: Peter Schmidt)
The Grass Snake. The yellow crescent collar patches
which may be the reason for it being confused with
on both sides of the neck of the Grass Snake are vir-
the latter. The distinctive dark, double stripe pass-
tually unmistakable. It is normally grey or brownish
ing from the tip of the snout through the eye and
with slight markings on its flanks or back of differing
from the corner of the mouth to the neck, its slightly
intensity. References to its maximum length vary.
shouldered neck and round pupils are distinctive
However, there are specimens longer than 130 cm
characteristics which identify the Smooth Snake
(Fig. 11) in the Hinterplag Quarry. The Grass Snake
for the careful observer (Fig. 12). At approx. 45 to
loves an open or semi-open habitat and is often
65 cm the Smooth Snake is significantly smaller
found in water. This may well be related to its prefer-
than the Grass Snake. Its discreet lifestyle makes
ence for frogs and newts, which along with mice and
accurate estimation of its population impossible.
lizards are among its favoured prey. The Grass Snake
The specimens found here vary in size, indicating a
has often been recorded in the Hinterplag Quarry.
stable population. The classic habitat of the Smooth
On a walk around the quarry in suitable weather,
Snake is alternating areas of sparse vegetation and
it is quite possible for the practised eye to see as
dense tall vegetation along with elements such as
many as 10 Grass Snakes. Presumably the reason
tree stumps and piles of stones, so it is unsurprising
for the population concentration is the large number
that this snake has become a species native to the
of pools used by a variety of amphibian species as
Hinterplag quarry.
spawning grounds.
Bats. ANUAL’s particular interest is bats, inspired not
The Smooth Snake. The Grass Snake is often seen
least by chairman Robert Klein‘s dedication to this
hunting in water. It is unlikely that you will see a
subject. Constant maintenance measures preserv-
Smooth Snake. It even prefers to bask in the sun un-
ing the open landscape of the quarry, its high biodi-
seen, i.e. under warm stones. The Smooth Snake is
versity and a plethora of insect life make the quarry
actually widespread and not at all rare, but its cau-
perfect hunting grounds for many bat species. While
tious lifestyle means it is hardly ever observed.
hunting, the bats came upon excellent winter quarters in the quarry’s tunnel driven 200 meters into the
The grey snake has dark markings along its upper-
hillside during the 1890 mineral excavation survey.
side, alternating along both sides. The pattern is like
Six species of bats regularly use the tunnel as their
a less-defined version of the zigzag line of the Adder,
winter quarters (Table 1).
10 HINTERPLAG QUARRY
Fig. 13: Daubenton’s Bats mating. The male breaks his winter
hibernation to search for females in the quarry’s blast tunnel.
The female will store his sperm until the spring. Her eggs are
fertilized at a time chosen so the young will be born in the late
spring when plenty of food is available. (Photo: Rolf Klenk)
Fig. 14: Visitor group in the quarry (Photo: Robert Klein)
It is pleasing to see the bat population grow in the
quarry’s ecological value – which not so long ago
quarry area. The number of hibernating specimens
was disputed – is now acknowledged by the vast
has increased since the entrance to the tunnel was
majority of local people and local policy makers.
barred with wire netting in 1991 to prevent distur-
The positive step of ANUAL becoming the official
bance by trespassers. During their winter visit of
owner of the site, and more importantly the influx of
1996/1997, the author and Robert Klein were partic-
many new youn g members to ANNUAL, allow us
ularly privileged to observe two Daubenton’s Bats
to look optimistically to the future. A precious bio-
mating (Fig. 13).
diverse Protected Landscape Component was saved
through the mobilization and collective efforts of key
It would be interesting to identify the species using
players. Visitors are invited to discover the varied
the quarry as hunting grounds. Unfortunately ANU-
habitat for themselves via a specially designed visi-
AL does not (yet) have the necessary equipment to
tor programme (Fig. 14).
carry out interference-free identification using ultrasound. Each bat species has its own unique vocal
The Hinterplag Quarry has always been an extremely
pattern, which can be recorded and the ultrasonic
valuable asset, both when it was quarried and now
when its importance for the future is increasingly be-
Species
British Name
Red List
ing recognized. It is a veritable success story – for lo-
Myotis bechsteini
Bechstein‘s Bat
2
Myotis daubentoni
Daubenton’s Bat
3
cal people, for ANUAL, for BAG and last but not least
Myotis mystacinus/brandti
Whiskered Bat/Brandt’s Bat
G/2
for the biodiversity of the quarry. It is the best thing
Myotis myotis
Greater Mouse-eared Bat
2
that could have happened to a quarry.
Myotis nattereri
Natterer’s Bat
3
Plecotus auritus
Brown Long-eared Bat
2
Table 1: Bat species in the Hinterplag excavation tunnel and the
level of their extinction risk according to the Red List classification
noises translated into images displayed on a computer screen. The system can even be used to identify
species during the summer. The number of bat species in the Hinterplag Quarry is presumably significantly higher than the estimate given by the winter
check in the quarry tunnel. Bat expert identifications
of bats captured in sample nets from similar habitats
has already suggested as much.
Future. The Hinterplag Quarry has become a favourite local attraction and is included in the local tourism programme of activities, e.g. the Basalt Trail. The
11
White Granite – the ETZ QUARRY
Ulrike Geise (Geise & Partner GmbH)
Ulrike Geise
Dipl.-Biologin, Regional
Advisor, Director (Geise
& Partner), born 1957 in
Ulm, spent her childhood in
Bavaria and North RhineWestphalia, is married with
two children, studied biology
in Würzburg and Albany/New
York, graduating in 1985 and
trained to be regional advisor
1995–1996
Fig. 1: Within very few years every possible recess, including the sheer wall, has
been invaded by trees, bushes and plants. (Photo: Ulrike Geise)
12 ETZ QUARRY
Fig. 2: The Etz Quarry is now dominated by a sheer wall of granite
created during past excavations. (Photo: Ulrike Geise)
Etz
White granite quarrying in the south Bavarian Forest
Hauzenberg
B 12
is a centuries-old tradition. Farmers were able to im-
A3
prove their incomes with a welcome and important
side-line. During the last century, quarrying and sale
Passau
B 388
of the quarried stone became a more professional activity with the quarry companies becoming so-called
global players. Hauzenberg granite’s characteristi-
Donau
cally fine grain, strength and well-developed regular
fissility made it a sought after product. There was a
true explosion in business in 1904 when the railways
reached Hauzenberg, connecting it to the national
transport network. There were over 200 quarries in
orientated. The upper strata of granite are signifi-
and around Hauzenberg. Up to 1,500 people were
cantly weathered, especially those near the surface,
employed in the quarries and stonemasonries. The
so excavation tended to concentrate on the deeper
beauty of the stone is still much appreciated today.
seams. In addition, the distance between the proxi-
Hauzenberg granite was used in the construction of
mate horizontal sill crevices increases with depth so
Munich Airport, Munich’s Chancellery, the Ingolstadt
larger raw blocks could be extracted below. The ex-
Fig. 3: 1907: One of the monoliths extracted in 1845 for the Befreiungshalle (Freedom Hall) in Hauzenberg is being transported to the
railway station. (Photo: Hauzenberg Granite Museum)
Fig. 4: Disturbance seam in the Hauzenberg granite
(Photo: Ulrike Geise)
State Garden Show and in the Hersbruck town reno-
traction routes in the lower quarry were incompat-
vation scheme. The Etz Quarry opened during the
ible with advancing mechanization, and extraction of
twenties of the last century. The medium grain, pale
building stone from Etz became economically unvi-
grey granite of the Hauzenberg granite massif II was
able.
excavated to be used as building stone. The granite
massif is defined by characteristic stratification of
Quarrying was suspended at the end of the nineties
the bedding planes (sill crevices, traverse crevices
of the last century. Thereafter the site was used mere-
and cross crevices) along which the excavation was
ly as a storage area. The original extraction area is
13
Fig. 5: The sun-drenched rocky crag with narrow and broad terraces interspersed by
minor landslips is a habitat of extreme conditions – but nonetheless colonized by many
pioneer species. (Photo: Ulrike Geise)
14 ETZ QUARRY
Fig. 6: The still water of the quarry lagoon. Overhanging branches
and a carpet of underwater vegetation produce a patchwork of
light and shade on the open stretches and hideaways, providing
protection for many species. (Photo: Ulrike Geise)
Fig. 7: Within a few years, natural succession of plants has produced a
homogeneous layer of vegetation on bare stone. (Photo: Ulrike Geise)
now a deep pond – a habitat for many fish and dragonflies. The pond is enclosed by stone walls providing a multitude of recesses for flora and fauna. Over
the years humus has collected on the broader stone
steps where seeds from the neighbouring woodland
have geminated. In contrast, the narrower steps are
often lacking in humus, but grasses and plants can
grow here, and Kestrels have welcomed it as a seminatural nesting habitat. There is a shallow water zone
opposite the sun-exposed steep stone face. Trees
Fig. 8: A Large Red Damselfly, a species quick to find new
pools. (Photo: akenzo.de)
stretch their branches over the water. Concealment
opportunities and hunting grounds abound both
above water and below among the underwater plants
for the dragonflies, amphibians and juvenile fish.
Excavation waste has always been dumped near the
excavation site and has formed a spoil heap several
metres deep, which in its older areas has returned to
woodland. The eastern area of the quarry is still used
for storage. The combination of compressed water,
sludge material and ground cover has created numerous sump pools and puddles – pioneer habitats
for specially adapted animals. Male Large Red Damselflies (Pyrrhosoma nymphula) guard the egg deposits of their partners. Broad-bodied Chasers (Libellula
depressa) whirl in flight across the water, continually
Fig. 9: Yellow-bellied Toad (Photo: Ulrike Geise)
searching for females willing to mate, all the while
circumspectly observed by their potential quarry, the
Blue-tailed Damselflies (Ischnura elegans). On warm
summer nights mournful calling can often be heard,
it’s the Yellow-bellied Toad (Bombina variegate) inviting fellow toads to courtship and spawning waters.
Yellow-bellied Toads can often be heard and seen
during daylight hours. Young and old toads take
up their accustomed postures on the pond surface,
males make their ritual displays and calling.
Fig. 10: Black and yellow underbelly marking is a blatant warning
to potential enemies. (Photo: Ulrike Geise)
15
Fig. 11: Yellow-bellied Toad courtship site and breeding waters (Photo: Ulrike Geise)
Fig. 12: This small puddle is home to young toads
and females not participating in reproduction.
(Photo: Ulrike Geise)
Yellow-bellied Toads prefer to oviposit in puddles
cretion is so well-developed that predators are rare
where there is no competition and little likelihood
(the yellow and black underbelly is a warning sign!).
of encountering enemies. On the other hand, small
If reproduction does not take place in an overly dry
puddles dry quickly if not replenished by summer
year, it is not a disaster.
outbursts of rain. The female minimizes the risk of
Toads prefer to stay in a familiar environment, but
when need be, can migrate to other more suitable
areas. One or two kilometres are no distance for
them.
Rivers were the original habitat of the Yellow-bellied
Toad. The network of ponds and puddles free of the
Fig. 13: Toads love to float motionlessly in water.
Pond
Brook
losing all her spawn by ovipositing several times
Meadow
during the summer and preferably in different pud-
Afforstation Site
dles. A female sometimes lays only 15 eggs, sometimes 100 eggs – depending on the suitability of the
water and of course the animal’s constitution. The
following diagram shows the results of scientific
research, which although not conducted at Etz, was
conducted in conditions very similar to those found
here. Unlike many other animal species, toads can
afford to be patient and wait for suitable breeding
conditions. These toads can live up to 30 years. Once
they have survived the first year of life, their skin se-
Recapture Sites
Fig. 14: Toad egg masses: small clutches of toad spawn, which
may be attached to grasses, twigs, etc. (Photo: Ulrike Geise)
16 ETZ QUARRY
Fig. 15: Toad network (Source: Gollmann)
Fig. 16: The structural diversity in a small pool (Photo: Ulrike Geise)
fish they needed for breeding was provided along-
network of FFH protection areas across Europe has
side rivers which occasionally flooded. Such flood
been designated as areas where the Yellow-bellied
plains are a thing of the past in Germany. The Yel-
Toad can live in either a “good” or “very good” envi-
low-bellied Toad has had to look elsewhere for new
ronment. Etz Quarry is one of the designated areas.
habitats. Fish ponds or pools created under nature
A FFH management plan is currently been drawn up
protection schemes are often unsuitable as the Yel-
to preserve the Yellow-bellied Toad population at the
low-belliedToad is dependent on pools no larger than
Etz Quarry. Basalt AG will be actively involved in its
a couple of square metres – but lots of them please,
implementation.
a range of puddles can provide males, females and
young animals with a place of refuge when need be.
Quarries and military training sites are frequently
the only places where large populations can still be
found. Heavy plant working of quarries compresses
the ground, constantly creating new networks of
puddles which the Yellow-bellied Toad can make use
of as an alternative to the lost flood plains.
Notwithstanding the Yellow-bellied Toad’s comparatively modest habitat requirements, it is nonetheless
one of Europe’s most threatened species.
Key
The collapse in population numbers has
Excavation Embankment
been dramatic nearly everywhere especial-
Spoil Embankment
ly in Germany. The reason? Even its refuge
Spoil Heap
habitats in the heavily-worked quarries and
Pond
the military training sites are becoming rar-
Pools
er and the networks of small water bodies
that the animals are dependent on are disappearing. Escape to other newly-created
areas is becoming increasingly difficult as
every road, railway line or urban area is yet
another impediment to emigration.
The Yellow-bellied Toad is quite rightly listed as one of Europe’s Flora Fauna Habitat
directive’s (FFH) protected species. The Federal Republic of Germany is required to ensure that population levels are maintained
at a level enabling the species to survive. A
Fig. 17: General plan (Source: Basalt AG)
17
SCHONUNGEN LIMESTONE QUARRY
Christine Meyer (W.RÖTH GmbH)
Dipl.-Ing. (FH)
Christine Meyer
Born on 18.03.1965 in Hamburg, studied Landscape Ecology between 1984 and 1989 at
the Weihenstephan University
of Applied Sciences in Freising. She has managed the
landscape planning/urban and
regional planning department
of landscape architectural
company RÖTH in Amberg
Opf since 1989 and has been
a director of W.RÖTH together
with Michael Zinnecker (Dipl.Ing.) since 2003.
Fig. 1: SCHONUNGEN LIMESTONE QUARRY (Photo: W.RÖTH)
18 SCHONUNGEN QUARRY
Fig. 2: The POST-CLOSURE SCHONUNGEN LIMESTONE QUARRY – view of the exposed steep southern faces, the groundwater-fed lake
and the steep west embankments.
LIMESTONE QUARRIES IN GENERAL
heat conducting properties. The highest biodiversity
Shell limestone is found in Bavaria in Nord-Würt-
and the highest percentage of both fauna and flora
temberg (Bad Mergentheim) in the South across to
endangered species are found in the sun-exposed,
western Bavaria (Würzburg/Bad Kissingen) and Mei-
low-nutrient dry habitats of limestone quarries. So-
ningen in the North.
called “INDEX SPECIES” (Source: LPK Bay StL FU/
ANL 1995; Fig. 3) indicate the value of a site; how-
The percentage of sub-Mediterranean species found
ever a period of species succession is required to
in limestone quarries is high, mainly because sub-
establish these rare species.
Mediterranean conditions are created by its flat
surfaces, the ground’s minimal water absorption capacity, low levels of nutrients and the stone’s good
Fig. 3: FAUNISTIC INDEX SPECIES in the
shell limestone pit. The “RED WINGED
GRASSHOPPER” prefers to settle in
(sparsely vegetated) limestone scree and
is in danger of extinction in Bavaria (Red
List). (Photo: E. Pfeuffer; LBV Archiv)
19
Schonungen
Quarry
SCHONUNGEN LIMESTONE QUARRY IN PARTICULAR
The site. The shell limestone quarry is in Hausen,
Schonungen
B 26
Schweinfurt
Main
approximately 4.5 km north of the town of Schonungen, about 5 km east of the town of Schweinfurt in
the district of Schweinfurt, administrative region of
Unterfranken. The area is included in the Hesselbach Highland area of unspoilt natural beauty and
borders on the nature protection area of Hausen Valley with the Ottenhäuser Grund and the Hesselbach
A 70
Würzburg
Grund. Consequently, there is good access to similar habitats (semi-arid grassland, small old quarries,
Wollenbachtal).
The history. Schonungen’s excavations began in 1969
A further value-defining benefit of the site is the se-
by the company Wendt. After a succession of compa-
clusion of the location, surrounded as it is by mixed
nies, Basalt AG took over the quarry and closed the
deciduous woodland at some distance from roads,
excavation workings in 1998, setting the course for
buildings, etc. Geologically, the area is part of Ba-
the site to be reinstated to nature.
varia’s escarpment landscape – the transition from
upper shell limestone to lower keuper.
STEEP FACE WITH WORKED LEDGES
SAFETY FENCE
HEDGE PLANTING ALONG EDGE
STILL WATER AREA
STILL WATER BANK
POIKILOHYDROUS ZONE
WASTE HEAP - WOODLAND SUCCESSION
STONE RUBBLE EMBANKMENT
REED BED WET ZONE
LOW-NUTRIENT CHALK GRASSLAND
SMALL POOLS
WOLLENBACHTAL
Fig. 4: REGENERATION PLAN FOR THE
SCHONUNGEN LIMESTONE QUARRY
(Planning: W.RÖTH GmbH Landschaftsarchitekten, Amberg, 2004)
W.RÖTH GmbH (landscape architects, Amberg)
of undesired woodland non-native species (Spruce,
worked in close consultation with the lower na-
Robinia).
ture protection authorities at the district office of
Schweinfurt to produce a regeneration scheme. The
Habitat.
future, ultimate state of the quarry and certain devel-
FLORA TODAY: pioneer woodland with ruderal flora
opment aspects were addressed.
– dominated by Salix cinerea (Large Grey Willow)
and other, e. g. undesired pioneers such as Robinia
Fig. 5: VIEW ACROSS THE SPOIL HEAP FROM THE EAST (Photo: W.RÖTH, 2007)
The regeneration scheme. Notwithstanding its rela-
pseudoacacia (False Acacia), Pinus sylvestris (Scots
tively small size of 9.5 hectares, when the Schonun-
Pine), etc. Undergrowth is dominated by the Yellow
gen limestone quarry closed, it already harboured a
Sweet Clover (Melilotus officinalis, M. alba; Fig. 6)
patchwork of microhabitats (Fig. 4): excavation cliffs,
FAUNA TODAY: Woodland succession on the soil
a groundwater-fed lake, pools on the quarry floor,
heap and the neighbouring mixed deciduous wood-
rubble areas, quarry ballast and a spoil heap.
land are important for the bird world – the Honey
Buzzard and the Green Woodpecker have recently
Consequently, very few rehabilitation changes
been sighted.
needed to be made to the site. The entire area was
relinquished to the succession process (Fig. 5) with
the exception of a small area of afforestation on the
spoil heap.
THE SCHONUNGEN LIMESTONE QUARRY
TODAY (2007)
RETURN TO NATURE
Site patchwork – habitats – development goals
The spoil heap.
DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVE: Oak-Hornbeam woodland, woodland succession, afforestation of sections
MAINTENANCE: 1st to 8th year – 1 x annual removal
Fig. 6: YELLOW SWEET CLOVER (MELILOTUS OFFICINALIS) dominates the ruderal flora on the spoil heap. (Photo: W.RÖTH, 2007)
21
Fig. 7: Coltsfoot pasture – at the foot of the soil heap (Photo: W.RÖTH, 2007)
THE QUARRY FLOOR/QUARRY RUBBLE
angustifolia). Further, the stone rubble on the quarry
DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVE: humid vegetation, chalk
floor is home to reptiles (Fig. 9).
semi-arid grassland, low-nutrient chalk grassland
FAUNA TODAY: The structural diversity of the quarry
MAINTENANCE: cutting back the grass annually and
floor is an ideal habitat for settlement by rare spe-
removing cuttings
cies.
Habitat Recently sightings have been recorded of birds such
FLORA TODAY: Plant cover on the quarry floor is cur-
as the Little Ringed Plover (an endangered species
rently defined by sundry pioneer stadia – at the foot
in Bavaria; there are nesting opportunities on the
of the spoil heap – Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara Fig. 7)
sparsely vegetated areas near to water), grasshop-
dominates, some sections are only sparsely vegetat-
pers such as the Common Field Grasshopper and
ed (Fig. 8) and in the shallow water areas a relatively
the Common Groundhopper (not endangered), tiger
homogenous population of reeds has established
beetles such as the Green Tiger Beetle (in Bavaria an
itself, dominated by Reedmace (Thypha latifolia/ Th.
endangered species; it colonizes sparsely vegetated
areas).
POOLS
DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVE: Temporary and permanent humid zones and shallow water areas
MAINTENANCE: None
Habitat
FLORA TODAY: In the shallow water zones of the lake,
there is a virtually homogenous population reedbed
Fig. 8: THE SOUTHEAST QUARRY FLOOR – various initial vegetation stadia (Photo: W.RÖTH, 2007)
of Reedmace (Thypha latifolia/ Th. Angustifolia) and
some Common Reed (Phragmites australis; Fig. 10).
FAUNA TODAY: Of the species dependent on water,
the amphibian and dragonfly species are the species indicating the value of the quarry. In addition to
common species, the low-nutrient levels of the lake
and its low fish population have attracted the following species:
Amphibians: Common Frog, Common Newt, Common Toad, Alpine Newt (these species are endangered in parts of Bavaria)
Dragonflies: Emerald Spreadwing (these species are
Fig. 9: QUARRY RUBBLE at a sunny site on the quarry floor
endangered in parts of Bavaria)
Fig. 10: View across the surface of the large lake with a Reedmace bed at the foot of the spoil heap. (Photo: W.RÖTH, 2007)
CLIFFS
DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVE: Succession
MAINTENANCE: None
Habitat
FLORA TODAY: The abrupt cliff face is liable to degradation as the shell limestone erodes – there are no
deep ledges, recesses or hollows. Sparse vegetation
has been able to become established permanently
on the open rock benches (Fig. 11).
FAUNA TODAY: Although there are no large rocky recesses, nesting for bird species is available in cliff
recesses: White Wagtail, Black Redstart (not endangered).
THE SCHONUNGEN SITE TOMORROW – A BIODIVERSITY OASIS
EVALUATION
The different, in part extremely varied, concomitant
microsites within the quarry have created a number
of so-called “interfaces”, one of the most important
factors in the ecology of the “quarry” habitat. At the
same time the sparsely vegetated pioneer habitats
in quarries are important substitute sites for species
which have become rare.
Fig. 11: View of the northern quarry face with rocky flank vegetation. (Photo: W.RÖTH, 2007)
Schonungen’s remote and undisturbed location is
it is this state of affairs which has contributed to the
hugely beneficial to long-term flora and fauna devel-
general demise in species across Europe.
opment. Excellent connection to similar neighbouring biotopes of the nature protection area “Hausen
Schonungen Quarry is an oasis for protected, rare
Tal” (species-rich mixed deciduous woodland, lime-
or at risk of extinction flora and fauna species and
stone low-nutrient grassed slopes, Wollenbachtal)
makes a major contribution to species protection.
has created very good conditions, encouraging the
The area is one of the few refuges for nature in our
immigration of species into the regenerating chalk pit.
predominantly “exploited” and “over-exploited”
world.
It is precisely the conditions listed above that are virtually absent from our current farmed landscape and
23
THE POTENTIAL FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF THE
QUARRY HABITAT
Succession is currently only in its early stages at
Schonungen and involves many common species.
However, there is above average potential for colonization by rarer and endangered species.
Quarry floor. Regular cutting back of the grass and
removal of the cuttings from the sunny quarry floor
is creating conditions which, in time, will allow rarer
plant species, e. g. orchids, to become established.
Fig. 12: Smooth Snake (Coronella austriaca)
(Photo: H. Zinnecker, LBV Archiv)
Many fauna species such as grasshoppers (index
a small mixed patchwork habitat of shrubbery, grass
species: Red and Blue-winged Grasshoppers) de-
– plants, vegetation-free rubble and boulder heaps
pend on vegetation clearance for their survival.
and therefore are well served by this site.
Other genera such as the tiger beetles are confined
to specific levels of ground moisture. Both conditions are met at Schonungen. Reptiles (index spe-
Cliffs. The habitats of the site, adjacent to mixed de-
cies: Smooth Snake Fig. 12, Common Adder) require
ciduous woodland and the various woodland suc-
Fig. 13: Small sunny excavation face – an attractive habitat for solitary bees, osmia and mason bees (Photo: W.RÖTH, 2007)
Fig. 14: The Great Crested Newt (Triturus cristata) is considered to be the INDEX SPECIES for the evaluation of quarry habitats in most
parts of Bavaria. (Photo: J. Fünfstück, LBV Archiv)
cession stadia found there, are very important, es-
ter-fed and hence low-nutrient lake with minimal fish
pecially for the large butterflies many of which are
population together with the smaller pools in com-
endangered (index species: the Hermit). The eroded
bination with varied vegetation stadia. Important in-
rock face provides shelter for osmia and mason bees
dex species are the Yellow-bellied Toad, the Common
(Fig. 13) and the rocky ledges and recesses are good
Adder, the Midwife Toad and the Great Crested Newt
nesting places for rare bird species such as the Eagle
(Fig. 14).
Owl.
Pools. A home for many reptile species is provided
The sparse fish population means both common
by the sunny, shallow water zones of the groundwa-
and rarer dragonflies could potentially colonize the
undisturbed area, e. g. Banded Darter, Southern
Skimmer (Fig. 15).
Fig. 15: Southern Skimmer (Orthetrum brunneum), (Photo: fotolia)
25
Biodiversity in the GRAVENHORST
SANDSTONE QUARRY
Martin A. Glöckner (Dipl.-Landschaftsökologe)
Martin A. Glöckner
Born 1971 in Braunschweig, studied Agricultural Ecology (Rostok)
and Landscape Ecology,
Education and Communication Science in Münster, followed by full-time
involvement in media environment education and
communication. Project
Manager for landscape
manager training in the
Lower Rhine since 2006
and fundraiser for the
NABU-Naturschutzstation
e. V. nature protection
group.
Fig. 1: Crag (Photo: Glöckner)
26 GRAVENHORST QUARRY
Fig. 2: When a Crantz Broad Leaved Helleborine was discovered in 2005, it was further proof of orchid colonization of the site. Another
orchid species, the Common Twayblade had appeared in previous years. (Photo: Glöckner)
Rheine
Hörstel
A 30
A1
Osnabrück
Gravenhorst
Münster
The Gravenhorst Quarry (district of Steinfurt, North
banks. The Gravenhorst Quarry has been given over
Rhine-Westphalia) is an abandoned sand quarry
to natural regeneration (succession) since its closure
excavated by a subsidiary of Basalt AG, Hollweg,
in 1968. In contrast to planned reinstatement involv-
Kümpers & Comp. KG. It was listed as a nature pro-
ing the import of a humus floor, afforestation and
tection area in 1998, in recognition of its geological
a specific planting scheme, the Gravenhorst Quarry
and scientific significance plus the importance of its
has been left to its own devices and accordingly has
grassland and low-nutrient habitats to fauna and flo-
produced a patchwork of different habitats. A variety
ra species. Excavation of the 1,100 m long, 80/120 m
of habitats has ensued, habitats which vary accord-
wide quarry came to an end in 1968 and now much
ing to the angle of the slope, exposure and water
of the area has again been populated with spruce
supply, each habitat supports its own specialized
and mixed deciduous woodland without managed
flora and fauna world.
afforestation work. There is a large clearing to the
northwest of the site, at one time the location of the
The different habitat categories and their defining
company building, which was demolished and re-
factors are introduced in the following pages. The
moved in 2004. An approx. 1,000 m² shallow lagoon
significance of the sites to nature and their flora and
has formed, fed principally by a spring on one of its
fauna are discussed.
27
Fig. 3: Summer guise of the Map Butterfly (Photo: Glöckner)
Low-nutrient areas. There are patches of Scotch
nomic value due to the angle of a slope or sparse
Heather growing in the small clearances at the mid-
humus cover.
dle and southeast of Gravenhorst Quarry. Its pronounced pink flowers dominate the autumn scene.
The exposed areas of Gravenhorst Quarry provide
Scotch Heather, also known as Ling Heather, is a
a surrogate habitat for typical low-nutrient indicator
typical indicator of low-nutrient soil. In our exten-
species. Until a humus layer of any sorts has been
sively managed countryside, low-nutrient environ-
formed, these areas will stay nutrient poor and the
ments such as this have become a rarity. Whether
prolific flowerers the “hunger mongers” will be able
arid pasture, heath or low-nutrient brooks and lakes,
to hold their own against their nutrient-loving com-
artificial fertilizers, industrialization and the airborne
petitor species, which is not the case in nutrient-rich,
import of nutrients has led to biotopes such as these
heavily fertilized fields and hedgerows. Many in-
becoming rare in central Europe. But it is precisely
sects, especially bumblebees, wild bees and honey
these habitats where the prolific communities of
bees and a large number of moths and butterflies
central Europe’s flora and fauna used to be found!
benefit from the heather.
Traditional low-nutrient areas only exist where agriculture or forestry is unprofitable, perhaps because
In the far south-west corner of the quarry, there is
of the size of the area or the area has minimal eco-
an approx. 20 x 30 m area of “moist heath”, that is,
Fig. 5: A bee meadow and beautiful heather islands growing on what was once bare ground (Photo: Glöckner)
Fig. 4: The Viviparous Lizard occasionally takes flight across water. (Photo: Glöckner)
low-nutrient heath with a good supply of water Erica
Water. The shallow water area of Gravenhorst Quar-
or Bell Heather grows here, which in Weserbergland
ry is a very special habitat. The low-nutrient water
is listed as a strongly endangered species. Other
heats rapidly as the spring-fed pool is shallow and
low-nutrient indicators are also growing here such
has little marginal shade from surrounding trees.
as Purple Moor Grass, traditionally used as a pipe
Dragonflies and other insects benefit from the pool,
cleaner.
there being few predators so their larvae can develop undisturbed in the warm water.
Temperature extremes. Another feature of quarries
is the islands of heat, which result from a lack of
In addition to the relatively large shallow water la-
plant shade and strong sunshine on the open, bare
goon, there are various other smaller feed-in pools
ground. This has two benefits for flora and fauna.
varying in depth and shading which are also predom-
Firstly, increasing the warmth results in an extend-
inantly fed by fresh spring water. These pools are
ed vegetation period as plants start growing earlier
kindergartens for the Alpine Newt, Common Newt,
in spring. Secondly, the area will be colonized by
Common Toad, Common Fog and Green Frog.
thermophilic plants, in part Mediterranean species,
which feel at home here as their requirements for
In the “older areas” of the quarry, abandoned dec-
microclimate warmth are met.
ades ago, several other springs have come to light.
These smaller water bodies have slowly dried, leav-
Restoration of the northwest area of the Graven-
ing wetland in which sphagnum moss can be found.
horst Quarry began much later, as a building stood
As these mosses can store a large quantity of water,
there for some time after the quarry closed. This
they represent the first stage in the development of
area is currently a 150 x 30 m rubble site in the midst
bogland.
of which a 1,000 m² water body has accumulated.
Even this bare ground, low-vegetation area reaches
Mechanical disturbance. The term “disturbance”
higher temperatures than other areas in the vicinity.
is imbued with negativity, but is nevertheless the
Lizards and insects such as grasshoppers, bees and
most important parameter in shaping and maintain-
butterflies benefit from the warm bare ground.
ing many valuable habitats. Mechanical disturbance
slows succession and the ultimate establishment of
Similar temperature conditions exist on the cliffs,
woodland. In addition to natural disturbance such as
where a temperature fluctuation of 60 °C from day to
grazing by wild animals or extensive flooding, man’s
night is an even more extreme climate than the bare
farming systems have always created new habitats.
ground. This is a habitat for highly adapted species,
Many animals in central Europe have adapted and
which in addition to being adapted to the microcli-
now need the open spaces created by disturbance to
mate conditions must also be able to tolerate the
survive. Many nature protection programmes in Ger-
low-nutrient environment of a vertical cliff. Mosses
many aim at breaking the progression of succession
and lichens are the first to colonize such habitats and
or attempt to return it to an early stage to restart the
are often the only inhabitants for decades to come.
colonization process and encourage pioneer species
which depend on an open environment.
29
Fig. 6: At this pool a short stay of a kingfisher could be observed. The bird fished larvae of newts and dragonflies, tadpoles and
water insects. (Foto: Glöckner)
Working quarries will always have several succes-
The Eagle Owl requires an undisturbed nesting place
sion phases coexisting in a patchwork of different
among the rocky cliff recesses where it can bring up
habitats (see habitat diversity and islands of warmth)
its young, untroubled by foxes or martens. It is de-
as phased excavation, which takes place over years,
pendent on open spaces and a complexly structured
repeatedly exposes virgin ground. Occasional activ-
environment of different green areas, woodland out-
ity with heavy plant machinery has slowed succes-
skirts and pools for hunting. The Gravenhorst Quarry
sion at the Gravenhorst Quarry and at the same time
can provide at least temporary roosting and hunting
compacted the ground on the floor of the quarry.
grounds. Without the existence of this quarry and
Sphagnum moss has grown in the waterlogged
another one nearby, this imposing bird would not be
heavy machinery tire tracks.
seen in the area.
Habitat diversity. Abandoned quarries without res-
It is interesting to note that the Purple Emperor has
toration such as the Gravenhorst Quarry, house a
been sighted. This butterfly flies to the crown of taller
diverse patchwork of structures and microclimates
more mature trees, e. g. the Oak during its courtship
providing a surrogate habitat for a plethora of fauna
display to mate there. It is a typical woodland spe-
and flora. In addition to the cliffs, the rocky crev-
cies dependent on willows, preferably the Goat Wil-
ices, the cavities, the rubble heaps, the heath, the
low, to lay its eggs and needs open ground where
scrub zones and precursory woodland stadia, there
it can drink salts and nutrients. This butterfly would
are springs, wet areas and areas where small wa-
not be found in a homogenous woodland area.
ter pools have dried. The microhabitat patchwork is
the reason for the high biodiversity and why self-
Overall view. Like many other quarries, the NSG
maintained abandoned quarries are so important
Gravenhorst Quarry is an important nature protec-
in nature conservation. The “King of the Night”, the
tion area. Field surveys conducted to date have re-
Eagle Owl, Europe’s largest owl, lives in the medley
corded over 150 plant species, 55 bird species and
of biotopes in the Gravenhorst Quarry and in 2003
more than 50 animal species. The structural diver-
hatched young owls.
sity, biotope richness and in particular the open, lownutrient area together with the water and sump area
Fig. 7: The Eagle Owl making use of the outlook from the newly created cliffs. (Photo: Gisbert Lütke)
have made the quarry a crucial refugee for our native species. Some of the animal and plant species
dwelling here are only rarely found in our intensely
managed environment. This second-hand habitat
has become vital to maintain populations.
Fig. 8: The Common Toad profits from the juxtaposition of older
pools and structured woodland. (Photo: Glöckner)
The area’s trails and vantage points are a pleasant
novelty for visitors, interesting from a natural history perspective and an aesthetically attractive place
to relax. Even on a leisurely visit, the visitor is likely
to experience waterlife, the wealth of flowers on the
low-nutrient meadow, the diversity of insects, the
call of the Eagle Owl and water frogs.
31
Natural regeneration of the WOLFSHAGEN
QUARRY
Stefan Dorstewitz and Anke Kätzel (Dr. U.-E. Dorstewitz & Partner)
Stefan Dorstewitz
Dipl.-Ing. (TU)
Born on 18.11.1962 in Bayreuth, studied 1984–1990
at the Claustal Technical
University specializing in
mining and raw materials,
graduated in June 1990 as a
professional engineer.
Anke Kätzel
Dipl.-Ing. (FH)
Born on 10.03.1975 in Schleiz
(Thür.), the author studied
Landscape Ecology at Anhalt
UAS from 1993–1999 specializing in Nature Protection
and Landscape Planning.
Graduated in 1999 as a
professional engineer, further
training in landscape ecology
at the University of Kassel
2005–2007.
Fig. 1: Wolfshagen Quarry (Photo: Grope)
32 WOLFSHAGEN QUARRY
Fig. 2: Aerial view shortly after the quarry was closed
(Photo: Grope)
Hildesheim
This diabase quarry in the Harz region is located to
the east of the Wolfshagen health spa in Harz, district
of Goslar, Federal State of Lower Saxony.
The Harz diabase quarry closed in 1987 after more
B 82
than 100 years of production. Regeneration work
Langelsheim
Goslar
was completed two years later. Since then the approximately 25 hectare quarry has been left to nature as much as possible and is today designated a
A7
Wolfshagen
nature protection area. Even before the works were
closed, the site had been colonized by critically endangered species such as the Midwife Toad and the
Eagle Owl. It was clear that the site had high potential as a secondary habitat. As an initial step in the
Göttingen
ecological development of the area, regeneration
work was aimed at maintaining existing structures
and creating biotope structures rare in nature, such
as flat oligotrophic still waters, low-nutrient arid
sites and rubble and boulder heaps.
Biotope. There have already been several surveys
of the development of flora and fauna. The last took
place in 2002. The dominant biotope type in the
quarry is pioneer woodland principally populated
by Birches. Extreme aridity here means the Aspen
Fig. 3: Midwife Toad (Alytes obstetricans), (Photo: Dorstewitz)
is relatively rare. There are also a few varieties of
willow species (predominantly Goat Willow – Salix
caprea) growing on the slopes. In addition Norway
Spruce (Picea abies), Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris)
and a few specimens of Norway Maple (Acer platanoides) and Dog Rose (Rosa canina) isolated from
the edges have become established. Density of the
precursory woodland is varied, determined by the
substrate available.
The densest woodland is between the mesa and
the west margin of the quarry, but does have gaps
and/or the vegetation has not grown particularly tall.
Fig. 4: Eagle Owl (Bubo bubo), (Photo: Grope)
33
Fig. 5: View to the nesting cliffs from the north, the mesa and west embankment. (Photo: Grope)
Transition to the dense bush growth of the low-nu-
more Maple (Acer pseudoplatanus) and Rowan (Sor-
trient grassland or to the dense bush growth of the
bus aucuparia) were planted along the quarry edges
open clearances is smooth.
as part of the regeneration plan. A dense screen of
wild rose species (Rosa spp.), the Sea Buckthorn
Populations of mixed woodland have become es-
(Hippophae rhamnoides), Blackthorn (Prunus spino-
tablished on the edges of the quarry and at the
sa), Hazel (Corylus avellana) and Blackberry (Rubus
quarry entrance. A high proportion of birch and wil-
fruticosus L. agg.) has grown to shield the quarry.
low indicate a pioneer character. At the same time
This belt and the surrounding woodland will supply
the populations are enriched by the immigration of
seeds for future woodland growth.
deciduous species such as the Norway Maple (Acer
platanoides), Sycamore Maple (Acer pseudoplata-
There is a dense population of Common Ash (Fraxi-
nus) and the Common Oak (Quercus robur).
nus excelsior) on top of the mesa. The mesa was
retained as a prominent post-excavation geomor-
Thick swathes, up to 100 m wide, of native decidu-
phologic object. There are three limnocrene springs
ous trees such as the Sessile Oak (Quercus petraea),
to the south of the quarry and the northwest area.
Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus), Common Beech (Fa-
Small shallow water bodies have formed around
gus sylvatica), Little-Leaf Lime (Tilia cordata), Syca-
the northern springs, but typical wet vegetation of
Soft Rush (Juncus effuses) or the Lakeshore Bulrush (Schoenoplectus lacustris) is only in its early
stages.
Small semi-natural streams exist in the north and
south sections of the quarry. The brook in the northern area is only occasionally filled with water. Typical streamside vegetation has not colonized the
area. The stony underground and absence of slopes
means there is little structural diversity and water
Fig. 6: Quarry bench screening (Photo: Aumüller)
flow is slow.
Fig. 7: A large quarry floor lagoon (Photo: Grope)
The southern area concomitant woodland species of
pogenic activities contribute to the anthropogenic
Silver Birch (Betula pendula), willows (Salix spec.)
rock and boulder rubble environments. However,
and Alder (Alnus glutinosa) have already become
at the rock faces, below which large boulders and
established. Vegetation is dominated by the Com-
fine rubble were deposited, the fine rubble is both
mon Reed (Phragmites australis), Common Water-
already providing and is a potential habitat for the
plantain (Alisma plantago-aquatica) and Common
Midwife Toad. This type of biotope occurs regularly
Club-rush (Schoenoplectus lacustris).
along the embankments.
The remaining water bodies are semi-natural low-nu-
Open clearances exist mainly in the northern area on
trient excavation pools. Typical waterside and water
the deeper quarry floor. The layer of substrate on the
vegetation is found in all the pools, growth varying
rocky areas is extremely thin. Few plants have been
in density. All the rocky areas resulting from anthro-
able to become established here. There are several
Fig. 8: View of the eastern quarry face (Photo: Grope)
35
Fig. 9: West excavation face in the spring (Photo: Grope)
puny Birches (Betula pendula) but little evidence of
The defining plant species are Common Bent Grass
plant colonization. The clearances will probably re-
(Agrostis capillaries), Wood Meadow Grass (Poa
main uncolonized for sometime yet. The haul routes
nemoralis), Canadian bluegrass (Poa compressa),
can also be classified as this type of biotope. Veg-
Queen Anne’s Lace (Daucus carota), Woodland
etation growth is hampered by compaction of the
Strawberry (Fragaria vesca), Field Clover (Trifolium
ground and tipping of materials when the quarry is
campestre), Hawkweed species (Hieracium spec.),
occasionally reopened. Typical plant species in ad-
Narrow-Leaved Vetch (Vicia angustifolia), Gold Clo-
dition to Birch (Betula pendula) are the Hawkweed
ver (Trifolium aureum) and Goldenrod (Solidago vir-
species (Hieracium spec.), Common St. Johnswort
gaurea). New, small ruderal patches have appeared
(Hypericum perforatum), Harebell (Campanula ro-
on the adjacent damp or wet sites and semi-ruderal
tundifolia) and Common Evening Primrose (Oeno-
patches on the arid sites.
thera biennis agg.).
There is a zone of low-nutrient mesophile vegetation
in the northern area of the mesa. This area is dominated by Oat Grass (Arrhenatherum elatius) with
few trees. Any spruces that colonized at the start of
regeneration were removed. Dense turf now hinders
serious colonization by the species, however there
are a few Birch populations (Betula pendula) which
have crept in from the woodland edge. Blackberry
bushes (Rubus fruticosus agg.) have spread in a few
areas.
The defining vegetation species are Queen Anne’s
Fig. 10: Flowers of Queen Anne’s Lace, food for the Swallowtail
(Photo: Grope)
Lace (Daucus carota), Broad-leaved Willowherb (Epilobium montanum), Hawkweed species (Hieracium
spec.) Knapwort (Centaurea jacea), Spreading Bellflower (Campanula patula), Golden Clover (Trifolium
aureum), Bitter Vetch (Lathyrus linifolius) and the
Common Milkwort (Polygala vulgaris). Most of the
open areas of base-rich stone have low-nutrient turf
with partially homogenous, partially patchy cover.
These stretches are sometimes interspersed with
trees, usually Birches (Betula pendula). The trees
have slowly encroached into the open areas from
neighbouring woodland populations.
Fig. 11: Guelder Rose, a bush on the edge of the planted woodland (Photo: Grope)
Fig. 12: The Water Frog (Rana kl. esculenta),
(Photo: Grope)
Fig. 13: Fire Salamander (Salamandra salamandra) in the spring area
(Photo: Grope)
Fauna. Little Grebes, Mallard Drakes and Tufted
common in the quarry. According to a recent popula-
Ducks have often been observed, mainly in the
tion census, it is still present in large numbers.
pools. They nest in the reed bed zones of the pool,
sometimes several pairs nesting together. A pair of
A Fire Salamander was recorded at the southern
the Little Ringed Plover has been seen in the north-
end of the quarry, where the brook leaves the quarry
ern area (lower quarry floor). Evidence of nesting
after passing through several shaded small pools.
has not been found and is not expected. The species
HARTMANN-SCHRÖDER & HARTMANN (2002) also
has already been put under pressure by advancing
recorded a large population concentrated at the en-
succession.
trance to the quarry (HARTMANN mdl.)
A typical crag inhabitant, the Eagle Owl has been
The Slow Worm has not been recorded. The species
nesting in the quarry for several years. All birds of
is common in the Harz area and it is expected to col-
prey confirmed at the quarry are temporary visitors.
onize the quarry.
Increasing forestation means more tree and hedgerow species are becoming established.
A total of 15 butterfly species was recorded at the
quarry in 2002. The Green Hawker and the Brilliant
Population data on amphibians and reptiles is dif-
Emerald were recorded again in 2002. In 2002,
ficult to gather. The Common Frog (Rana tempo-
10 species of grasshopper were also recorded. It was
ria) and the Common Toad (Bufo bufo) had already
spawned by the beginning of the data collection period. Quantification of the Midwife Toad population
was undertaken as precisely as possible.
Nine amphibians and reptile species were recorded.
All previously recorded species were found again.
Their populations appear to have stabilized as they
have found optimal habitat conditions in the quarry.
The Edible Frog has established a very large population.
Newts were found in the pools. The entire spectrum of newt species is represented. The Common
Newt is very widespread. HARTMANN-SCHRÖDER
& HARTMANN (2002) mention its population in the
Wolfshagen Quarry as being the largest population
in the Oberharz and the northern region of the Harz
Mountains. The Smooth Newt has always been very
Fig. 14: The Brilliant Emerald (Somatochlora metallica),
(Photo: Grope)
37
Fig. 15: Cepero‘s Groundhopper (Tetrix ceperoi), (Photo: Grope)
particularly interesting to note the presence of spe-
been recorded on the North Sea coast of Germany,
cies worthy of protection, the Blue Winged Grass-
in the Osnabrück area and the district of Goslar. The
hopper (Oedipoda caerulescens) and the Cepero‘s
species has only been found here in two places, the
Groundhopper (Tetrix ceperoi).
quarry and in Vienenburg in the Okertal. The species
is dependent on open, wet ground and is found in
A few specimens of the Blue Winged Grasshop-
the area between the pools. Both species are threat-
per were discovered on the low-nutrient grassland.
ened by advancing biosuccession. No doubt in the
The species is very rare in South Lower Saxony. It
medium-term they will be ousted.
is otherwise only found in Okertal, downstream
from Wiedelah at the southern Harz margin. Cep-
In addition to the animal species already mentioned,
ero’s Groundhopper (Tetrix ceperoi) is one of Lower
there have been sightings of 24 butterfly and moth
Saxony’s rarest grasshoppers. Sightings have only
species around the water bodies; three fish species
Fig. 16: Silver Studded Blue (Plebejus argus), (Photo: Grope)
Fig. 17: Biotope maintenance (Photo: Grope)
(Stickleback, Common Carp and Minnow), Water
Nature friends from all over Germany come here to
Scorpions, Small Pond Snails, Common Backswim-
take advantage of this opportunity.
mers, Pond Skaters, Horse Leeches and macrozoobenthic species.
The former quarry operating company is maintaining a strict cordon to ensure the aims of the regen-
Conclusion. The Harz diabase quarry in Wolfshagen
eration programme are met. In addition, the district
is an excellent example of the successful regenera-
of Goslar has begun an initiative to manage the bi-
tion of a surface excavation quarry achieved by close
otope and preserve its diverse habitats.
collaboration between the quarry owners, local authorities and planning agencies. Development of the
Sources. DR. U.-E. DORSTEWITZ + PARTNER: Man-
nature protection area was made easier by the se-
agementmaßnahmen zum Artenschutz im Diabas-
cluded location of the quarry. Flora and fauna colo-
steinbruch Wolfshagen, Erfassung, vergleichende
nization and the subsequent increase in populations
Untersuchungen früherer Aufnahmen und Definition
happened largely automatically.
von Schutzmaßnahmen für gefährdete Arten unter
besonderer Berücksichtigung der Geburtshelferkröte
Two vantage points have been constructed, from
(Alytes obstetricans), erstellt im August 2002.
which the nature visitor can view this unique habitat.
HARTMANN-SCHRÖDER G. & G. HARTMANN (2002):
Bemerkungen zur Amphibien- und Reptilienfauna
des Oberharzes und seines nördlichen Vorlandes, in:
Mitteilungen des Naturwissenschaftlichen Vereins
Goslar (Hg.). Bd. 7, Goslar
GROPE, WILLI: Fotodokumentation seit 1992.
KÄTZEL, ANKE: Fotodokumentation im Sommer
2002.
Fig. 18: Information board at the viewpoint (Photo: Grope)
39
EISENSTEINER KOPF – the multifunctional use
of an open cast mine
Heiko Himmler (IUS Weibel & Ness GmbH)
Heiko Himmler
Dipl.-Geograf
Born 1963, studied Geography, Geology and Biology in
Mannheim and Heidelberg
while working as a freelance
journalist. He has worked for
the Weibel & Ness GmbH Institute of Environment Studies
(IUS) since 1990. Key activities
include landscape conservation planning for quarries.
Himmler’s special interest is
vegetation ecology and nature
protection.
Fig. 1: Pool at the southeast of the open cast mine of Eisensteiner Kopf (Photo: Himmler)
40 EISENSTEINER KOPF
Fig. 2: Product storage at Eisensteiner Kopf (Photo: Himmler)
Alzey
The approx. 40 hectares of open cast mine at Eisensteiner Kopf is one of the North Palatine Hill’s me-
Eisensteiner Kopf
KirchheimBolanden
dium-sized quarries. Because the mine excavates
both basaltic andesite and acidic hyodacite, and has
many uses besides, the site is particularly suited as
A 63
an example of a working quarry functioning as a
species refuge.
Excavation of andesite in the northern zone of the
Ludwigshafen
open cast mine ceased in 1998. The quarry is still in
the process of being filled to a final depth of 30 m,
A6
in line with the regeneration plan. Half of the surface has already been refilled. Rhyodacite continues
to be mined in the southern zone of the quarry. This
strikingly red stone is used for special purposes and
Kaiserslautern
excavation takes place according to demand at irregular intervals. The western zone of the open cast
• rocky areas prepared for excavation where the
mine houses the processing area of an operative
upper soil has been removed
feldspar mine located 200 m further to the north-
• intermittently used areas, e. g. for the storage of west. The products are stored, transported and sold
equipment
from here.
• embankments with woodland-border populations
Stone excavation areas. There is a patchwork of hab-
Notable plants and animals are colonizing the quar-
itats in the rhyodacite zone of the southern quarry:
ry, particularly the rocky areas where the upper soil
• vegetation-free excavation faces and transport has been removed. Species characteristic of the nat-
areas
ural rocky biotopes of the North Palatine Hill have
• stockpiles of unused materials
colonized these areas.
41
metres
Built-on areas and transport areas
Ruderal vegetation
Excavation walls
Bush area
Water
Pionier woodlands
Poor-vegetation and vegetation-free spoil heaps
Fig. 3: A section of the Eisenstein Kopf quarry biotope.
The Field Cudweed (Filago arvensis) is a species
common at the site. Their populations will reduce as
endangered across all Germany, but common at
woodland becomes denser. These species are also
the site. There are also infrequent occurrences of
the Small Cudweed (Filago minimal). They are part
of a scanty population of pioneer plants along with
Colonial Bentgrass (Agrostis tenuis), Sheep Fescue
(Festuca ovina) and mosses of the Grimmia and
Racomitrium genera. If these areas are left alone for
a long period, trees would colonize – the European
Larch (Larix decidua) from the neighbouring forestry
as well as the locally more typical Birch (Betula pendula). The plant layer would then become patchier
with fewer species as tree shade encroaches. Pioneer species depend for their survival on the return
of open rocky areas which are left to develop naturally for many years.
Characteristic animal species adapted to the rocky
area are the endangered Blue Winged Grasshopper (Oedipoda caerulescens) and the Common Field
Grasshopper (Chorthippus brunneus). They are
Fig. 4: Field Cudweed (Filago arvensis), (Photo: Himmler)
Fig. 5: Yellow-bellied Toad (Bombina variegate), (Photo: F. Thomas)
found in other areas of the open pit where there are
nest in individual shrubs – but is nonetheless de-
fewer trees and bushes, notably on the heaps of
clining in number. This once common species has
waste materials.
been Red Listed as regressing, nearly threatened, in
Germany. There were 9 breeding pairs at the Eisen-
The Sand Lizard (Lacerta agilis) is regularly ob-
steiner Kopf in 2006. The Green Woodpecker is now
served on the waste heaps bordering the woodland.
rapidly disappearing from Germany and elsewhere,
The Sand Lizard is endangered in Germany and is
but nests in the adjacent woodland. The irregularly
an EU strictly protected species. It is dependent on
used border areas of the quarry are an indispensa-
a patchwork of habitats: easily warmed surfaces for
ble feeding area. As long as the Eisensteiner Kopf
thermoregulation, dense vegetation for hunting and
Quarry continues to be used as it is now, these rarer
hiding, and winter quarters between boulders or in
species will always have a supply of successive veg-
the woodland.
etation stadia.
The processing and production environment. The areas close to the processing site initially appear to be
hostile to life, but are in fact home to several locally
and nationally rare species. The Yellow-bellied Toad
and the Midwife Toad reproduce in the small water
bodies which have been dug to collect rain water.
Toads are also found in the settling tanks.
The pools vary in size from 40 to 250 m². There is
Fig. 6: Sand Lizard (Lacerta agilis), (Photo: Himmler)
also a larger lagoon on the quarry floor. The main
habitat of the Midwife Toad is at the excavation site
Irregularly accessed areas used to store equipment
itself and on the spoil heaps, while the Yellow-bel-
and materials are also a welcoming habitat for the
lied Toad finds refuge in the surrounding woodland.
Sand Lizard. Because these areas are rarely used
Both amphibian populations are concentrated in the
and are on the edge of the excavation area, far from
North Palatinate region and are found almost exclu-
the processing area, species sensitive to disruption
sively in quarries. In a working quarry airborne dust
such as the Red-Backed Shrike and Stonechat have
has to be kept down by watering, so water will con-
been able to colonize the area. Both these species
tinue to be stored in the future. An amphibian habitat
are endangered across Europe as the countryside
is therefore guaranteed for the next few decades. In
niches with bush species they need for nesting and
addition to the Yellow-bellied Toad and the Midwife
the low-growing areas they need for food have be-
Toad, common species of common toads, palmate
come rarer. Similar habitats have been inhabited by
newts and green frogs also breed here.
the Common Whitethroat. It is not quite as fastidious, it can live in smaller territories and occasionally
43
Fig. 7: Alpine Willowherb (Epilobium dodonaei), (Photo: Ness)
The rare Alpine Willowherb (Epilobium dodonaei)
200 metres away from the heavy plant tracks created
has colonized the mineral stockpiles. It originates
by the refilling work which continues to be carried
from the gravel banks of Alpine streams and grew
out. Eagle Owl territory has to include several such
in Southern Germany starting at the Rhine moving
lookouts in addition to nesting opportunities. The
north to Karlsruhe. As its original habitats have been
lookouts are not just resting places, but also serve
lost, it is now mainly found in gravel pits and is un-
as reserve nesting places. Its current nest is about
der threat. In North Palatinate, the Alpine Willowherb
3 km further east in an abandoned quarry. Recoloni-
was first identified in quarries in the Rammelsbach
zation of the Palatinate area by the Eagle Owl began
quarries in 1950. How it managed to find its way here
in the North Palatinate quarries and has meanwhile
still puzzles botanists.
extended to the French border.
It is now a typical quarry plant in the Kusel area and
The presence of the Eagle Owl may be the reason
has spread as far as the eastern edge of the North
the Peregrine Falcon does not breed, but regularly
Palatinate Hills. The decorative Alpine Willowherb is
hunts at the Eisensteiner Kopf Quarry. Eagle Owls
a welcome neophyte as it does not oust local plants
are one of the Peregrine Falcon’s few predators. Both
and animal species. It is often the only plant species
are dependent on quarries for breeding sites in the
growing in the area.
North Palatinate. The Peregrine Falcon often retreats
to high buildings, as it does in other regions.
The refill area. The partially filled northern zone of
the Eisensteiner Kopf mine is basin shaped with
Rock and scree vegetation on the northern section
steep 20–30 m encircling faces. An Eagle Owl has
of the Eisensteiner pit is now limited to a few sites
taken up a regular day watch in a rocky recess about
because refilling work will eventually fill the quarry
arid and wet pioneer habitats. Pioneer habitats are
by nature only temporary. Characteristic pioneer
species adapt to an ever-changing environment by
being able to colonize newly created habitats quickly. The unstable environment of a working quarry
ensures there is a steady supply of new habitats in
different areas for pioneer species.
If the open rocky areas of pits were abandoned for
a number of years or decades, the pioneer populations may begin to develop into semi-natural rock
and scree biotope communities. There is clearly potential for nature protection action here. Heavy grazing over many centuries is the reason for the open
character of a large part of the natural rock and scree
biotope with habitats for many rare species. After
the practice of heavy grazing ceased, more prolific
plants and bushes spread into the previously grazed
areas. This rather unhelpful development for nature
conservation can be observed about 1km away at
the “Albertskreuz” nature protection area. Other rock
and scree biotopes have been damaged by excessive visitor numbers, as is seen at the “DrosselfelsSchwarzfels” nature protection area, 0.5 km south of
the Eisensteiner Kopf.
Fig. 8: Changing Forget-Me-Not (Myosotis discolor),
(Photo: Himmler)
Quarries provide the only realistic option to create
a permanent habitat for rocky scree animals and
to the upper excavation bench. The remaining occur-
plants. This can be achieved in the changing environ-
rences of rock and scree vegetation on the base-re-
ment of a working quarry and in abandoned quarries
acting andesite, such as the Noble Yarrow (Achillea
as part of the aftercare programme. Quarries can
nobilis) and the Changing Forget-me-not, which is
help stop the continued decline of these species.
endangered in Germany (Myosotis discolor), form
a constellation of species quite different to those
growing on the acidic rhyodacite.
Summary evaluation. The example of the Eisensteiner Kopf Pit shows that a working quarry provides a
multitude of habitats for common, rare and endangered species. Many species are indicators of both
45
Succession at PECHSTEINKOPF
Heiko Himmler
Dipl.-Geograf
protection.
Fig. 1: Southern quarry (Photo: Himmler)
46 PECHSTEINKOPF
Fig. 2: Arid grassland (Photo: Ness)
Ludwigshafen
The more than 1,000 hectares at the east foot of the
A6
Palatinate Forest known as “Haardtrand” is one of
southern Germany’s largest nature protection ar-
Bad Dürkheim
eas. Its principal conservation role is in preserving
Pechsteinkopf
the traditional small-scale vineyard environment. Its
rare flora and fauna world emanated from the upper slopes above the vineyards, where high biodiversity open grassland interspersed with heath and
B 271
Kaiserslautern
A 65
forestry had been created as the result of centuries
of grazing. The woodland pasture was grazed until
prove the quality of the vineyard soil since the 16th
200 years ago and now the surviving forestry zones
century. Industrial excavation of basalt began in the
are in the process of completing encroachment of
two neighbouring pits in 1841. The southern quarry
the area. Some of the area’s species have found a
closed in 1964, the northern excavation in 1991. The
new home in the vineyards.
quarries were between 3 and 8 hectares. The southern pit, closed for over 40 years, is of particular inthe
terest to nature conservation. Its eastern side does
“Haardtrand” conservation programme. What has
not have the typical terrace structure of benches and
this to do with quarries? A quarry has been desig-
quarry faces, but is a steep, sparsely wooded stony
nated a conservation area and is fast becoming
scree slope from which basalt crags occasionally
the linchpin of biodiversity conservation. The larg-
protrude. The quarry wall collapsed in 1964.
The
“Pechsteinkopf”
Quarry
as
part
of
est nature protection zone has taken its name from
the quarry “Haardtrand – Am Pechsteinkopf”. Pech-
The slumped wall provides a number of develop-
steinkopf is about 1 km beyond the foot of the moun-
ment opportunities for nature. Its unstable scree with
tain range in the well-known wine growing areas of
fine substrate, boulder scree groupings and crags is
Deidesheim and Forst. It is surrounded by forest. The
similar to the more natural interlocking occurrences
tertiary basalt – Pechstein means black stone – has
in the Middle Rhine Valley. It has become clear that it
been used as a road surfacing material and to im-
was exactly this sort of patchwork of forest and arid
47
Fig. 3: Hieracium zizianum (Photo: Himmler)
grassland, which almost vanished decades ago and
Carthusian Pink (Dianthus carthusianorum), Spring
was one time the reason for Haardtrand’s rich biodi-
Cinquefoil (Potentilla tabernaemontani), Potentilla
versity, is now reappearing here in the quarry. Year to
arenaria, Slender Bedstraw (Galium pumilum) and
year, the species total is increasing. Precisely those
Thyme (Thymus pulegioides) have grown on the
species which are not represented in the vineyard
silicate arid turf above the individual crests of basalt
species, find a suitable habitat at the Pechsteinkopf.
soil. Characteristic maidenhair ferns (Asplenium trichomanes, A. rutamuraria) have become established
Succession on the east quarry embankment. Veg-
in crevices.
etation development on the collapsed quarry wall
was sluggish for over twenty years. Pioneer species
The rarest arid grassland species is the nationally
quickly became established on the flat areas covered
endangered Hieracium fallax. The Hawkweed genus
with fine substrate, particularly in the lower quarry.
is an extremely complex taxonomic group as its in-
The pioneer species were predominantly spruces
dividual species have hybridized. Hieracium fallax is
and Goat Willow and Wild Cherry at the foot of the
one of the few hawkweed species that is relatively
embankment. Because immigration of semi-shade
easy to identify with its umbel-like flower head.
adapted plants proceeded at a slower pace, the
Its main distribution area is the southern Siberian
ground under the pioneer trees remained extensively
steppes to the Black Sea.
bare. The majority of the areas hosted only a sparse
development of pioneer populations of Carline This-
Isolated populations in the dry and warm areas of
tle (Carlina vulgaris), Canadian bluegrass (Poa com-
central Europe represent the remains of a large popu
pressa) and Basil Thyme (Calamintha acinos). By the
lation zone from the Pre-Boreal/Boreal post-ice age
late eighties, it was apparent that the collapsed exca-
(approx. 9,500–8,000 Before Present) which was later
vation wall could become an important semi-natural
fragmented by subsequent colonization of decidu-
distribution area for vegetation.
ous trees. Far more populous on the Pechsteinkopf
is the taller Hieracium zizianum. It was one of the
Meanwhile, the picture has changed. In the upper
first colonizers of the unstable embankment section
quarry Winged broom (Chamaespartium sagittale),
and extends to the arid grassland.
48 PECHSTEINKOPF
Fig. 4: Corymbflower Tansy (Chrysanthemum corymbosum), (Photo: Himmler)
Bushes typical of this habitat type have become
nity bushes. Gully woodland has yet to develop on
established along the outer edge of the wood-
the cool-humid, high-nutrient sites in the deep sec-
land groups. In terms of plant sociology, they are
tions of the quarry where large amounts of fine ma-
the members of the Owl-head Clover community
terials have accumulated. Willows and Wild Cherry
(Geranio Trifolietum alpestris). This plant community
have formed dense pioneer woodlands, its vegeta-
is under threat in Germany. It is typically found on
tion layer will consist of many of the common nutri-
the edges of arid-warm oak forest on mineral-rich,
ent indicator plants. Characteristic gully woodland
but calcium-poor soil. Apart from the Owl-head Clo-
plants are rare in the region and have little ability to
ver (Trifolium alpestre), there are striking and charac-
spread over any distance.
teristic fringe community populations of Peach-leaf
Bellflower (Campanula persicifolia), Bupleurum (Bu-
Rare species of the Haardtrand such as the Gas
pleurum falcatum) and Feverfew (Chrysanthemum
Plant, Perennial Lettuce or Red Feather Clover have
corymbosum) and representative fringe community
not yet colonized the Pechsteinkopf. Succession over
bushes. Development of the arid grassland and also
the last 40 years suggests interesting developments
the fringe communities took a noticeably short time.
may be expected in the future.
This was influenced by the ready availability of areas to spread to. Throughout the last few decades,
Pechsteinkopf animals. There have been a few re-
there have always been individual habitats along
ports of animals at the Pechsteinkopf. The Bush
the quarry crown open to population by the plants
Cricket (Ephippiger ephippiger ssp. vitum) was
from the arid grassland and loose woodland. These
found, which like Hieracium fallax is a relic from the
are the remaining survivors from the time when the
post-ice-age warm period. The subspecies found in
Haardtrand became blanket forest. The species have
the quarry has a limited distribution across France,
spread quickly on the flat areas on the hill-support
Belgium and Luxemburg and a few other outposts –
mounds, becoming characteristic plant communi-
northern Spain, southern Holland, western Switzer-
ties. Some precursory woodland is recognizable by
land and southwest Germany. The local subspecies
the invasion of the Sessile Oak (Quercus petraea),
evolved as the result of isolation from the southern
Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa) and also fringe commu-
European main population during the ice-age.
49
the bare ground created by grazing animals in the
highlands and clearances would have delayed the
spread of shadow-throwing trees. Man preserved
the habitat for around 7,000 years cultivating the
wood pasture. Since wood pasture cultivation has
subsided, the Bush Cricket has declined in number
and is now critically endangered. The Bush Cricket
has clearly only colonized the fringe of the quarry
and the area of the former excavation works where
ruderal vegetation is found and where there are adjacent bushes. The patchwork of vegetation on the
collapsed material of the southern quarry is exactly
the sort of habitat it needs. The area will probably be
colonized in the near future and could then serve as
a refuge for an indefinite period of time.
Fig. 5: Carthusian Pink (Dianthus carthusianorum),
(Photo: Himmler)
Fig. 6: Bush Cricket (Ephippiger ephippiger), (Photo: F. Thomas)
Its populations are also isolated in Germany. It is
An approx. 20 m long tunnel in the southern quar-
found in the Middle Rhine and Lower Moselle re-
ry provides winter quarters for bats. The local spe-
gions, in the Saar-proximate highlands and the
cies, the Brown Long-eared Bat (Plecotus auritus)
Haardtrand. The distance to the dense distribution
tolerates frost during hibernation. A lake which has
area beginning in Lothringen does not appear to
formed in the quarry functions as a protective bar-
be great, but for the Bush Cricket is nonetheless in-
rier in front of the tunnel. The entrance to the tunnel
surmountable. It cannot fly and its dependence on
is in a former excavation face, just above water level.
warmth means dense forests are an impenetrable
The Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus) has colo-
barrier.
nized the north quarry. The Honey Buzzard (Pernis
apivorus) regularly visits the two quarries to hunt.
The distribution areas of the Bush Cricket suggests
As its name implies, the buzzard mainly eats wasps
that these areas could never have been densely
and bees, it also digs out their ground nests, but is
forested or it would never have survived. Initially
protected from stinging by its horn-plated beak and
50 PECHSTEINKOPF
Fig. 7: Winged Broom (Chamaespartium sagittale),
(Photo: Himmler)
Fig. 8: Owl-head Clover (Trifolium alpestre), (Photo: Himmler)
claws. However, the Honey Buzzard can also catch
midday and afternoon sun would provide ideal con-
frogs and small reptiles, found here in abundance.
ditions for xerothermic biotopes.
The Midwife Toad (Alytes obstetricians) calls from
Colonization of this biotope by a rich diversity of
the clear water lake at the base of the northern
species will depend on the environment being able
quarry. The male of the species wraps the strings of
to retain its characteristic animals and plants. Xero-
spawn around its legs to protect its young. Its call-
thermic biotopes are often inhabited by relic species
ing is rather like the sound of a cow bell or the ring-
which have little opportunity to extend their distribu-
ing of village church bells, depending on whether
tion.
the caller is pragmatic or romantic, and has lent the
Midwife Toad its alternative name Bell Toad. It is no
longer found in the southern side of the quarry. The
lake there had been crystal clear for many years, but
now carp have been introduced and it has forfeited
its special character.
Summary evaluation. Pechsteinkopf’s southern quarry suggests, that in terms of the quarry’s reuse as a
nature protection area, abandonment of the benching system would be a logical action. This would
not necessarily encourage the classic abandoned
quarry species of Eagle Owl and Peregrine Falcon,
but in large pits,both steep walls and slopes can be
combined, as is the case at Pechsteinkopf. The Eagle Owl and Peregrine Falcon prefer an east-facing
steep wall which does not heat up too much in the
mornings or midday, whereas slopes exposed to the
51
ALBERSWEILER –
Barren landscape as a habitat
Heiko Himmler
Dipl.-Geograf
protection.
Fig. 1: Albersweiler Quarry (Photo: Himmler)
52 ALBERSWEILER QUARRY
Fig. 2: Albersweiler Quarry (Photo: Himmler)
Ludwigshafen
The Albersweiler Quarry to the east of the Palatinate
A 65
Forest near Landau covers only 15 hectares. The
quarry does not have any areas not in use and consequently there are few habitats suitable for animals
and plants. Nonetheless this excavation site fulfills a
Albersweiler
B 10
Landau
particular function for native species.
Pool amphibians. There are several pools on the
quarry floor and along the ramps. These pools are
Karlsruhe
used to irrigate the roads and spoil heaps in the
quarry. Irrigation is especially important at the Albersweiler Quarry due to the proximity of a public
In the region surrounding the quarry, there are Rot-
road and housing estate. Some of the pools are fed
liegend sediments overlaid by the variegated sand-
entirely by rain water, these are barren and dry very
stone plate of the Palatinate Forest. There are numer-
quickly after a few days without rain. A few other
ous flat springs, the water from which forms pools
pools have formed at the foot of the excavation wall
on the clay ground above the Rotliegend. They are
and are filled with groundwater. The water inflow is
currently empty, filled-in or overgrown with vegeta-
very weak, but rarely stops so that these pools still
tion. Only a few specimens of the Yellow-bellied Toad
contain water after several weeks without rain. These
exist at the Albersweiler Quarry and these survive in
pools are the reason for Albersweiler Quarry’s signif-
the groundwater-fed pools.
icance as a habitat for amphibians in the region.
A further two threatened amphibian species, the
Natterjack Toad (Bufo calamita) and the European
Green Toad (Bufo viridis) live in the quarry. Even
though the main distribution areas of the two toads
are at opposite ends of Europe, both are dependent on shallow, short-lived pools for their spawning
grounds and dry open spaces as their main habitat.
The Natterjack Toad is found mainly in western Europe and the planes south of the North Sea and Baltic Sea, whereas the European Green Toad is found
Fig. 3: Spawning pool for the Yellow-bellied Toad (Photo: Himmler)
in the East and far into Asia. Southwest Germany is
an isolated outpost of the zone. The original habitat
The flagship animal of quarries, the Yellow-bellied
of the Natterjack Toad was the wild river environ-
Toad (Bombina variegata) is also found here. It is no
ment where high water leaves pools along the sand
longer found at any of the surrounding local sites
and gravel banks.
where it used to be found.
53
Fig. 4: European Green Toad (Bufo viridis), (Photo: F. Thomas)
The European Green Toad originally colonized the
with plant growth for hunting, but these areas may
steppes, where large flat pools were once com-
also be very small. The lizard needs loose substrate
mon in spring. After the spawning period, neither
in which to lay its eggs. The greatest population den-
species needs humidity and both would have been
sities of the Wall Lizard are found at the ramp edges
well-served by the cultivated steppes, had there
of the Albertsweiler Quarry where boulders hold
been more spawning pools. Albersweiler fulfils the
back land slip.
habitat requirements of both species. The European
Green Toad is common; there being only a few speci-
The presence of the Wall Lizard at the Albersweiler
mens of the Natterjack Toad.
Quarry, the Smooth Snake’s (Coronella austriaca)
prey, is the reason for its presence. This small snake,
Other animals. The Albersweiler Quarry is located
usually maximum 60–70 cm, feeds mainly on other
at the heterogeneous interface area of the southern
reptiles. The quarry is much too small for a stable
Palatinate wine growing area to the Palatinate For-
Smooth Snake population, but together with the sur-
est. Several animal species, supposedly protected in
rounding areas it has found a suitable habitat here.
the partially adjoining nature protection area, have
colonized the excavation works. The Wall Lizard (Po-
A rocky underlay has been exposed at the western
darcis muralis) is present in large numbers. The Pa-
edge of the quarry where surface soil was removed
latinate Haardtrand is one of the few areas in central
in preparation for further excavation work. A sparse
Europe where the Wall Lizard is relatively well rep-
grass layer has grown on the rocks. Such habitats
resented. In recent times, its population may even
were common around Albersweiler in the 19th centu-
have grown.
ry, today they have virtually disappeared. The Heath
Grasshopper, a nationally endangered grasshopper
More than other native species, the Wall Lizard is
species and characteristic of this extreme biotope
dependent on a barren, sunny, stony environment
is found here. Adjoining Blackthorn bushes provide
where it can soak up the sun. However, such places
nesting opportunities for several Red-backed Shrike
provide little food. The Wall Lizard requires areas
couples.
Fig. 5: Fell field, (Photo: Himmler)
Fig. 6: Shepherd‘s Cress (Teesdalia nudicaulis), (Photo: Himmler)
54 ALBERSWEILER QUARRY
Fig. 7: Wall Lizard (Podarcis muralis), (Photo: F. Thomas)
Fig. 8: Smooth Snake (Coronella austriaca), (Photo: F. Thomas)
Plants. The Albersweiler Quarry is largely barren.
A striking pioneer flora has colonized parts of the
There is only significant plant growth at its edges.
weathered debris of Rotliegend sediment which
has collected on the ramp sides facing the hill in
Gorse bushes accompanied by the Deptford Pink
the upper part of the quarry. A species often found
(Dianthus armeria) have spread here and typify the
on silicate rocky rubble heaps in the western half of
area. Sheep Scabious (Jasione montana), a typical
Germany is the Downy Hempnettle (Galeopsis seg-
south west German silicate zone species, has also
etum). There are also hundreds of Linearleaf Snap-
colonized the area. Both species are found in the
dragons (Misopates orontium), a plant endangered
rocky grassland at the western edge of the quarry
in Germany. It is a classic field plant like the Corn-
where the indicator Shepherd‘s Cress (Teesdalia nu-
cockle or Larkspur, which disappeared in the wake
dicaulis) is found in the early spring and indicator
of intense field farming. In the wider environment of
Perennial knawel (Scleranthus perennis) in the early
Albersweiler, set-aside of poor-produce fields on the
summer.
flat slopes has had equally negative consequences.
The snapdragon does not need a field as such, but
it does need loose soil and no covering vegetation.
These conditions are met by the fine sediment collected at the foot of the quarry wall. The population
to the south of the Albersweiler Quarry is the largest.
Summary evaluation. A small quarry such as the
Albersweiler Quarry can only provide a few seminatural niches for rare plants and animals. But even
such a small quarry, where every useful space is inhabited, is also a suitable refuge for some of the rare
Fig. 9: Downy Hempnettle (Galeopsis segetum), (Photo: Himmler)
species which have largely vanished from today’s
farming landscape. Six Red List species are represented, four of them are not found in the vicinity
around the quarry, but are present in the quarry. The
species have formed six self-sustaining populations.
With a little adjustment and without disruptive excavation work, the quarry could continue to provide
much needed habitats.
Fig. 10: Lesser Snapdragon (Antirrhinum orontium), (Photo: Himmler)
55
IMHAUSEN QUARRY – nature conservation by
contract in a working quarry
Burkhard Kern (pro terra) and Ralph Voigt (Basalt AG)
Burkhard Kern
Dipl.-Biologe
Ralph Voigt
Dipl.-Landschaftsökologe
Born 1958 in Aachen, after
initially working as an auto
mechanic studied Biology at
the RWTH Aachen and since
1992 has been joint owner of
pro terra specializing in vegetation study, animal and landscape ecology and is involved
in flora and fauna surveying,
authorization procedure, FFH
compatibility studies, species
protection and vocational
training
Born in 1973 in Menden
(Sauerland), 1993–2001 degree
in Landscape Ecology at the
Westphalia Wilhelms University of Münster, 1997–2001
involved in student teaching
at the Institute of Landscape
Ecology, since 2001 employed
by Basalt AG, BWH responsible for the environment,
authorization and storage
depots
Fig. 1: Symbolic – but not contrived. A hydraulic digger and water biotope side by side. (Photo: Kern)
56 IMHAUSEN QUARRY
Fig. 2: View of the quarry and the processing site with pools on the
lower floor (Photo: Kern)
Siegburg
B 256
Operations. The Imhausen Quarry in the borough
of Windeck (Rhine-Sieg district, North Rhine-Westphalia) has been excavating greywacke since 1932.
Bonn
Imhausen
Basalt AG took over the Bergisch-Westerwälder Hartstein quarry in 1992 and currently produces 350,000
tonnes of stone annually. The greywacke is crushed
B 478
A3
and sized into a variety of products and building materials some of which are refined on site by Basalt
AG’s subsidiary Asphalt-Mischwerk GmbH & Co. KG.
The product is sold for use in road construction and
has led to the Yellow-bellied Toad playing a flagship
landscaping and supplied to the regional concrete
role in nature conservation at the European level. It is
industry. A population of the rare Yellow-bellied Toad
listed in appendixes II and IV of the Flora Fauna Habi-
has been able to colonize this industrial environ-
tats Directive as requiring special protection. The Yel-
ment, an environment which at first sight would ap-
low-bellied Toad is found over the majority of central
pear hostile.
Europe, the Italian peninsular and the Balkans. Its
distribution focus within the EU is southern Europe.
The Yellow-bellied Toad. The Yellow-bellied Toad
(Bombina variegata) is threatened with extinction in
Its northern-most distribution limit is Germany;
North Rhine-Westphalia and is dependent on conser-
however a large percentage of its total population is
vation measures (Red List NRW of 1999: 1 N) for its
found here. Germany has a special responsibility to
survival. The northwest frontier of the species distribution is in NRW. It occurs almost exclusively on the
northern edge of the Eifel mountain range, the southern area of the Lower Rhine and Westphalian Bay and
the northern outposts of the Bergisch region and the
Westerbergland. The distribution of the Yellow-bellied Toad is also limited to a height between 50 and
450 m above sea level, which confines its occurrence
to a specific zone (SCHLÜPMANN & GEIGER, 1998).
Retreat of its distribution borders has cleaved the
population into smaller isolated groups. The RhineSieg district has one of the remaining distribution
concentrations in North Rhine-Westphalia (SCHMIDT
et al., 2005). In southern Germany, the species has
a broader distribution, but even here the populations are declining. The species is still “endangered”
(Red List BDR of 1998: 2) in Germany. The situation
Fig. 3: Aerial photo of the Imhausen Quarry (Photo: BAG)
57
Fig. 4: Typical spawning pools at the base of Imhausen Quarry in a flat, sparsely vegetated and sunny area (Photo: Kern)
preserve the existence of the Yellow-bellied Toad in
its habitat requirements. It originally colonized river
Europe (STEINICKE et al., 2002).
valleys with dynamic rivers. The rivers were regularly displaced by flood water creating new sand and
The natural habitat of the Yellow-bellied Toad. The
gravel banks and water pools in this primary habitat
reason the Yellow-bellied Toad is endangered lies in
(original habitat). The repeatedly created new habitats were colonized by the pioneer species the Yellow-bellied Toad. It is superbly adapted to newly created habitats (NÖLLERT & GÜNTER, 1996) and was
one of the first species to use the sparsely vegetated
areas in this quarry. The main advantage of this environment is the absence of pressure from food-competitors and predators. The proximity of groundwater means that small pools of water and flood water
pools form regularly. These pools are necessary as
spawning habitats, as its larvae (tadpoles) can only
Fig. 5: Yellow-bellied Toad (upper side), (Photo: Kern)
develop in water. The relatively short time to maturity is an indication that it is adapted to ephemeral
pools. Intensive land use has drastically reduced the
number of natural habitats available to the Yellowbellied Toad. Nearly all today’s rivers have been constrained and narrowed, so that even during the flood
season there is little overflow to form smaller pools.
The Yellow-bellied Toad’s refuge habitats. The Yellowbellied Toad is tied to its habitat requirements and
in the short run it will not be able to change. How-
Fig. 6: Yellow-bellied Toad (underside), (Photo: Kern)
58 IMHAUSEN QUARRY
ever, as a pioneer species, it is sufficiently flexible
Fig. 7: The quarry’s slurry ponds are also often used as spawning grounds. (Photo: Kern)
to spontaneously take advantage of other habitats
in the water is not directly correlated to the total
where there is little competition pressure. However,
population size. The total population is usually larger
its specific habitat requirements are not provided by
than the number of visible animals. The special be-
fields, forests or human communities. On the other
haviour of small local populations may vary. On the
hand, in today’s managed countryside, quarries can
quarry floor there are stretches of strata water and
provide elementary secondary habitats (refuge habi-
sunny rainwater pools. These border the entrance
tats) for this endangered species. Active excavation
to the lower quarry levels where the embankments
work and heavy plant transport in quarries is often
consist of loosely structured rocky piles. The slurry
a substitute for the natural dynamic of the Yellow-
pools also provide suitable spawning grounds. The
bellied Toad’s original habitat. Its original habitat in-
group of small rainwater-fed pools near the quarry
cluded spawning grounds of new open small pools,
entrance have been dug especially for amphibians
dryland habitats where the toad can hide under
and will provide a good habitat for the species as
loose stones and small recesses or piles of stones
long as they do not become overshadowed by veg-
where it can spend a frost-free winter. Almost 90 %
etation.
of Rhineland Palatinate’s population of the Yellowbellied T oad lives in a quarry or other excavation
There are areas in the quarry suitable as daytime
site (VEITH, 1996).
hideouts. It is important that the animals have access to hollows to which they can retreat. As sun
The habitat structure of the Imhausen Quarry.
exposure and the length of dry periods increase in
The Imhausen Quarry provides the habitat struc-
the summer, the hollows have to be sufficiently hu-
ture which the Yellow-bellied Toad needs. A variety
mid. This is usually the case in loose piles of stones.
of small pools are available for use as spawning
Loose embankments or similar formations certainly
grounds. As its reproduction period can extend over
provide these conditions as the outer rocks in such
the entire warm season (an adaptation to the pio-
piles are in contact to ground moisture.
neer habitat) adult animals are found in the water for
the entire vegetation period. However, these are not
In addition to the complex summer habitat of the
always the same animals so the number of animals
Yellow-bellied Toad, the quarry also provides winter
59
Fig. 8: Away from the main thoroughfare, water-logged heavy plant tracks are also suitable spawning grounds. (Photo: BAG)
quarters for the species. As a small amphibian with
As Basalt AG had already been making provision for
a maximum body length of 5 cm, the Yellow-bellied
the amphibian for years, the requirement to protect
Toad needs a narrow entrance to its “underworld”.
the Yellow-bellied Toad did not present an intractable
However, the hideaway has to be about 1 metre
problem. Nonetheless there was concern that for-
deep to be certain it provides frost-free conditions.
mal nature protection requirements would lead to
A quarry will not have natural small mammal bur-
difficulties and increased expenditure in running the
rows or rotting roots, however semi-natural crev-
quarry and the processing sites.
ices, loosened rocks from explosives work and spoil
heaps do provide these conditions.
Contractual nature conservation! Basalt AG decided
to propose early formalization of the conservation
Many of the Yellow-bellied Toad’s habitat structures
measures for the FFH area. The proposed contractu-
are automatically created during normal quarrying
al agreement was submitted to the regional govern-
operations. At the Imhausen works, special con-
ment in Cologne, the Ministry for Environment and
sideration has been given to the needs of the am-
Nature Protection and the Agriculture and User Pro-
phibians and action taken to ensure that there are
tection group of NRW. The concept was that greater
always sufficient habitat structures available to the
flexibility in implementing species conservation
Yellow-bellied Toad so the local toad population can
measures would achieve better interfacing with the
be maintained and developed. Certain pools are permanent; others have a 2 year life cycle before being
lost to quarry work, but then other pools are created
to replace them. The pools at the quarry entrance
are cleared and weeded when necessary or new
pools are dug. The pools are watered when necessary during dry periods. Certain stockpiles are only
accessed in the summer months in order to protect
the hibernating toads. Further, heaps are continually
created to provide winter quarters for the Yellow-bellied Toad.
Mandatory nature conservation? The importance of
active quarries in protecting animal species has farreaching consequences for quarry companies. Working quarries are often classified as nature protection
sites. This has happened at Imhausen. As a consequence of Germany’s role in conserving the Yellowbellied Toad, the FFH in Brussels has listed the “Imhausen Quarry” (DE-5211-304). Its importance as a
nature protection site is assured.
60 IMHAUSEN QUARRY
Fig. 9: Rocky embankments with loose sediments and recesses fulfill some of the Yellow-bellied Toad’s and the Midwife Toad’s habitat
requirements. (Photo: Kern)
Fig. 10: The Yellow-bellied Toads finds daytime refuge and winter hibernation quarters in rocky crevices. (Photo: Kern)
Bibliography:
NÖLLERT, A. & GÜNTHER, R. (1996): Gelbbauchunke –
Bombina variegata, in: GÜNTHER, R. (Hrsg.): Die Amphibien und Reptilien Deutschlands, Gustav Fischer
Jena, 232–252.
SCHLÜPMANN, M. & GEIGER, A. (1998): Arbeitsatlas
zur Herpetofauna von Nordrhein-Westfalen, Hrsg.:
AK Amphibien und Reptilien NW, Münster: 20.
SCHMIDT, P., WEDDELING, K., HACHTEL, M. &
Fig. 11: Signing the contract, representatives of the state of North
Rhine-Westphalia and Basalt BAG (Photo: BAG)
CHMELA, C. (2005): Bestandserhaltende Maßnahmen für die Gelbbauchunke in Bonn und im RheinSieg-Kreis 2003/2004; Rundbrief zur Herpetofauna
company management without affecting or reduc-
von NRW 26 (März 2005): 21–24.
ing the extent or magnitude of protection. Contrac-
STEINICKE, H., HENLE, K. & GRUTTKE, H. (2002):
tual nature conservation in a working quarry – would
Einschätzung der Verantwortlichkeit Deutschlands
be breaking new ground.
für die Erhaltung von Tierarten am Beispiel der Amphibien und Reptilien; Natur und Landschaft 77 (2):
The contract between the state of North Rhine West-
72–80.
phalia and Basalt AG, drawn up under the terms of
VEITH, M. (1996): Gelbbauchunke – Bombina variega-
§48 c (3) LG NRW was signed on 12.04.2005, thus
ta, in Gesellschaft für Naturschutz und Ornithologie
showing the way ahead. Active mineral quarrying
Rheinland-Pfalz (Hrsg.): Die Amphibien und Reptilen
and nature conservation, side by side and hand in
in Rheinland-Pfalz, Beiheft 18/19, Nassau, 151–164.
hand, a reality under the auspices of a contract.
61
STÖFFEL PARK – transformation of a basalt
quarry to an industrial heritage site
Michael Wuttke (Generaldirektion Kulturelles Erbe, RLP) and Bernd Freihaut
(m3-baukunst, Architekten BDA)
Dr. Michael Wuttke
Bernd Freihaut
Born 1950, studied Economics and Geology in Frankfurt/M. and Mainz. PhD 1988
with distinction, followed by
geology-based projects in
Greece, USA, Spain (Canaries). Director of Geology
at the Generaldirektion
Kulturelles Erbe since 1989,
teaching at the University of
Mainz and adult education
centres.
Born 1959, community
service, studied Psychology
in Heidelberg, Architecture in Darmstadt and
Braunschweig. Degree
with distinction 1988/89,
thereafter urban development and preservation
of historical monument
projects in Greece, France,
North Africa, India, Nepal,
USA. He founded an agency
in 1991, has won several
competitions, teaches and
has been a member of BDA
since 2005.
Fig. 1: Ariel view of the Stöffel Quarry (Photo: BAG)
62 STÖFFEL-PARK
Fig. 2: Auditorium basalt stage (Photo: M. Peter)
Stöffel-Park
Langenhahn
The first of its kind in Germany, the geo-tourist cen-
Bonn
tre was opened a few years ago in a largely active
B 255
A3
basalt quarry in the Westerwald Forest. Stöffel Park
is a unique combination, both a monument to nature
and a monument to Germany’s industrial heritage.
Only recently opened, the park attracted 20,000 visi-
Montabaur
tors in its first year of business.
Frankfurt
Basalt has been quarried at Stöffel for more than 100
years. Stöffel is located in the districts of Enspel, Nis-
Devastating volcanic eruptions repeatedly took
tertal and Stockum-Püschen, near to the spa town of
place, leaving ash-clouds covering many square
Bad Marienberg. At 140 hectares, Stöffel has one of
miles of land. Rivers of basalt lava surged along the
the largest compact deposits of basalt in the Wester-
valleys. Occasionally there would have been a par-
wald Forest. Stöffel basalt is quarried exclusively by
ticularly vicious eruption when upsurging volcanic
Basalt AG/Linz.
magma reacted with groundwater underground at
a depth of several hundred meters. Phreatomag-
Unique geology witness. Stöffel achieved interna-
matic water vapour explosions would have thrown
tional fame, at least in geology circles, through its
volcanic ash up to 20 km in the air. The sink holes
unusually well-preserved plant and animal fossils
above the explosion chambers were transformed
dating back 25 million years (late Oligocene geo-
into maars. One of these lies above the Stöffel ba-
logical era).
salt.
At that time the entire Westerwald Forest was only
The maar with its filling of bitumen fossil-containing
50 metres above sea level and a morass of volca-
argillite and volcanic ash is a unique and irreplace-
noes, broad rivers and lakes.
able witness to the history of the earth. Nowhere
63
Fig. 3: The historic workshop after closure of the quarry in 2000 (Photo: m3-baukunst)
Fig. 4: View of the interior of the workshop (Photo: m3-baukunst)
Fig. 5: The historic workshop following renovation (Photo: Werbebahnhof)
64 STÖFFEL-PARK
else can so much information be obtained about
removed by the company Adrian. Leaves, fish and
this geological era, its climate, the living world and
tadpoles were unearthed. As we now know, the mud
environmental conditions. The foundations for the
stone originates from the 2 km² maar lake which ex-
earth’s current ecology were laid in this geology
isted in the Enspel, Nistertal and Stockum area at the
era. Research and knowledge about the geological
time of the late Oligocene. The Generaldirektion Kul-
past is not simply undertaken for the sake of knowl-
turelles Erbe (previously the Rhineland-Palatinate
edge itself. It is only by investigating the past that
State Office for Conservation of Historical Monu-
today can be understood and – particularly in light
ments) has been researching the geological archae-
of climate change- plans made for the future.
ology of the maar lake since 1990. It works closely
with universities, museums and the state office for
The Stöffel maar. Until about two decades ago, our
geology and mining RLP, the research having been
understanding of the environmental conditions in
made possible by the cooperation and continuing
the Rhine Schiefergebirge mountain range during
support of Basalt AG/Linz (previously Adrian Basalt
the late Oligocene era (approx. 24–29 million years
and Uhrmacher).
ago) was based on investigations carried out as part
of mining operations in the coal fields of the West-
The finely striated, bituminous sedimentary depos-
erwald Forest. The findings were mainly collated in
its of the Stöffel lake contain the remains of both
the penultimate century and the first decade of the
plant and animal inhabitants of the ancient lake
20th century and no longer meet today’s modern
as well as land dwellers that were perhaps blown
geoscientific standards, which aim at reconstruct-
or washed into the lake. The sediments yielded a
ing primeval ecosystems. Most of the information
wealth of leaves (see below), to date – thousands of
gained from coal related to plants. Samples of ver-
insects (the original colour could still be detected in
tebrates were extremely rare (e. g. the fossilized An-
some), fish, tadpoles, frogs, salamander, tortoises,
thracotherium pig). The fossilized remains were re-
crocodile teeth, a Cormorant and a game bird (Pal-
covered during mining activities and consequently
aeorthyx cf. gallica) and numerous mammals from
were often only fragmentary.
various orders. The mammals included an otter-type
piscivore (Potamotherium valletoni), a relative of
In the second half of the penultimate century, when
today’s Rock Rabbit an inhabitant of North America
new coal seams were being prospected in answer
and Eurasia (presently under research).
to the demand for greater coal supplies for smelting
of iron ore extracted in Lahn-Dill and Siegerland, it
Three specimens of one of the earliest gliding ro-
was known that there was a link between basalt and
dents, the Stöffel Mouse (Eomys quercyi), were
the occurrence of coal and so an underground ex-
especially interesting. These mouse-sized animals
ploration tunnel was dug at Stöffel. The exploration
were preserved complete with fur and stomach
found coal deposits and fossilized fish, which in fact
contents, allowing accurate reconstruction of the
were entered on the mineral mining rights claim
animal’s lifestyle. They were part of a rodent family
reference map drawn up by the Koblenz Board of
(Eomyidae) living about 40 million years ago which
Mines. Over the following decades the find was
became extinct about 2 million years ago. The En-
forgotten as the high slag content of Stöffel coal
spel skeletons represent the only source of our en-
proved it commercially unviable.
tire knowledge about these animals, as only teeth
had been uncovered previous to this find!
By mere chance, at the beginning of the eighties of
the last century, the Stöffel coal deposit was redis-
Plant specimens are also extensive, but consist
covered by two school children from Enspel – to-
mainly of leaves and flowers. Leaved branches are
day’s Enspel fossil deposit.
extremely rare and tree stumps have not as yet
been found. Waterside plants such as water lilies,
W. Dörner and R. Baldus split fine layers of the mud
reeds, willows and cypresses have been retrieved.
stone (the previously so-called lignite coal) which is
There were also specimens of plants from the dry
rich in organic materials. The first fossils were found
surrounding land such as Beech, Hornbeam, Elm,
under the basalt in the quarry when a sump pit was
Oak, laurel species, Walnut and pine species.
65
Fig. 6: Crusher I before renovation to create the basalt experience space (Photo: erdgeschichte)
Very few species of fish have been recovered. After
of mammals can be expected. One hundred years
more than seventeen years of research, only one
of basalt quarrying is the reason why these unique
single species of fish has been identified, this was a
fossil deposits have come to light.
carp-like fish (Palaeorutilus enspelensis). Remains of
a possible second species are currently being inves-
Industrial heritage. Quarrying of basalt became in-
tigated. Carnivore fish have not as yet been found.
creasingly important at the end of the 19th century
An unusually large number of tadpoles were found,
when the dawning of the railway age and subse-
in such good condition that details of the soft ana-
quent motorization produced an ever increasing
tomical parts and stomach contents could be seen.
demand for basalt ballast and paving stones. It was
Some of the specimens were as long as 20 cm.
only after quarrying began in the Siebengebirge
(Seven Hills) that the basalt excavation companies
Adult frogs from three genera still in existence to-
turned to the Westerwald Forest, access having
day (Discoglossidae, Pelobatidae, Ranidae) and one
been made easier by expansion of the railway net-
extinct family (Palaeobatrachidae) were found.
work. Adrian Basalt’s oldest self-contained industrial quarry complex was built during this time. Its
The demise of the lake was just as dramatic as its
importance extends beyond the Westerwald Forest
generation. The eruption point is likely to have been
as more or less all the original buildings and ma-
south of the town Stockum-Püschen. A volcano shot
chinery from the beginning of the last century have
a stream of basaltic lava in the direction of the Stöf-
survived. The buildings and machines are outstand-
fel lake. The lava flowed into the lake and formed a
ing manifestations of the buildings, social structure
100 metre deep lake of molten lava. This lava, to-
and technology of that epoch.
day’s basalt, prevented destruction of the soft lake
deposit through weathering for millions of years.
The complex provides the unique opportunity to experience the historical development of this industry
The geological excavation goes on. New discoveries are constantly being made. If today’s ecosystem
is similar to the ecosystem then, up to sixty species
66 STÖFFEL-PARK
presented in an accessible and enjoyable way.
Fig. 7: Crusher I after the roof was repaired (Photo: m3-baukunst)
Demolition and reclamation. Industrial landscapes
concept with an economically sustainable solution
are often though of as “working landscapes” where
would have any chance of success.
money was earned. The “wound in the landscape”
was healed by demolition at the end of production
The GDKE scheme was to convert the entire indus-
and the land then reclaimed. This was originally the
trial waste land to a heritage site. The project was
plan for Stöffel. The production buildings would
given the title “The Stöffel Tertiary Geology and In-
have been demolished, the foundations covered
dustrial Theme Park” and would be financed largely
with excavated material and by about 2015, the
by European Union funding (LEADER +), the state
entire 140 hectare quarry area would be afforested
of Rhineland-Palatine, money from the local dis-
with deciduous tree species.
trict, local authorities, neighbouring communities
and the labour administration. In addition, funding
In the early nineties of the last century when the
for reclamation from the quarry operator was made
international importance of the fossil deposit had
available, primarily for landscaping work.
emerged and the importance of the industrial heritage site of Adrian Basalt to the region understood,
From Stöffel Tertiary Geology Industrial Theme Park
it became clear that the planned reclamation ought
to Stöffel Park.
not be carried out as envisaged, as irreparable cultural and scientific losses would be incurred.
Preservation through use. Right from the start it was
obvious that it was going to be insufficient to simply
The change in attitude was crystallized when future
convert the buildings and restructure the landscape.
quarrying at Enspel was in question as the first ba-
Research into visitor interests quickly made it plain
salt reservoir was depleted. However, the scheme
that the groups of visitors with a specialized rather
to preserve the buildings and site permanently for
than general interest would not be enough to make
the public and geology research then appeared to
a project of this size commercially viable. This would
be condemned to failure in the face of unpromising
also apply to the original concept of a combination
financial options available to local communities and
of industrial heritage and geology.
the strictures of old legal leasing contracts. Only a
67
Basalt Museum Crusher 1
Coal Shed
Historical Workshop Museum
Reception Building with the Regional Information Centre and Tertiary Geology Museum
Fig. 8: The information centre buried in a spoil heap, which will also house the tertiary geology experience room (Photo: m3 baukunst)
Even though industrial heritage tourism is a growing
grades of difficulty and a mountain bike course on
market, visitor interest is primarily concentrated on
part of the spoil heap could provide a variety of ex-
the industrial monuments with the status of “cathe-
perience options, both for participants and observ-
drals of work” (e. g. the Zeche Zollverein – an indus-
ers.
trial heritage colliery museum). The same applies to
geology tourism, which is also a growing market.
In addition an operations concept was commis-
Stöffel Park has the Enspel fossil collection and the
sioned to address key economic parameters. Mar-
theme museum.
keting was a major consideration. One of the first
actions was to change the overly long and difficult-
Right from the start, feasibility studies were carried
to-remember name to “Stöffel Park”. An industrial
out into its cultural and leisure potential in the region.
landscape, fossil collection and buildings complex
The objective was to extend its cultural programme
must of course also have a museum with a classic
beyond industrial heritage and geotourism. The re-
exhibition of natural history and industrial heritage
sults showed that large public events such as open
themes.
air cinema evenings, theater in the quarry and open
air concerts were an option for the Stöffel site.
However, presentation of information would need
to be more than a series of exhibitions and aim to
The trend sport sector could also be integrated at
bring to life history and stories right in the place
Stöffel by making use of the landscape and build-
where they happened.
ings. A fixed rope climbing route at the crusher site
I the future basalt experience museum, a climb-
As the buildings, machines and site have the func-
ing route around the building complex of varying
tion of exhibiting themselves, there is no necessity
68 STÖFFEL-PARK
Fig. 9: Historical workshop experience room (Photo: Meyer)
to present these themes separately. A project of this
quarry with its noise, dust and hectic loading ac-
size with these specifications can only be managed
tivity, etc. cannot be reproduced. Therefore the
by a team of scientists, architects, specialist engi-
original labouring activities and skills of the quarry
neers, artists and graphic artists. The project had to
workers can only be conveyed through an educa-
begin with the most basic of information gathering
tional programme. Health and safety regulations
as there was no existing survey of the buildings or
on public use of the buildings and the site require
canalization system, the historic tunnel under the
careful adaptations to be made for the visitors.
material storage sites or a site inventory. Schemes
for renovating the somewhat ramshackle buildings
A conservation museum scheme formed the back-
and the machines needed to be developed and a
bone for discussion of the necessary changes. The
presentation concept designed.
architectural office m3-baukunst is involved in the
dynamic process of finding solutions to counteract
Preservation of the historical architecture. As the
the surprises met at every turn as plans are con-
conservation scheme outlined above suggests, the
tinually adapted to meet the next structural prob-
entire industrial dereliction site at Stöffel has to ful-
lem. The characteristic architecture of the buildings
fill a double purpose. As far as possible, the build-
and the technology has demanded extra vigilance,
ings, machinery and landscape must be preserved
especially the wear and tear traces on machinery
true to their original form, but also function as a
or the issue of break-through between buildings,
quasi-museum.
although this was the result of changing work practices. These issues could not have been addressed
However well the industrial complex is preserved
in the initial architectural plans and of course af-
in its original form, the experience of a working
fected the renovation scheme in which the renova-
69
Fig. 10: Insects have been preserved in the finest of detail
(Photo: erdgeschichte)
Fig. 11: A fossil relative of today’s South Asian Crocodile Newt (Photo: erdgeschichte)
tion objective was to achieve conservation of the
the historic workshop experience room which was
quarry works as they would have been at the time
opened to the public in July 2007.
of closure. Many of the scars left by the work were
seen as “gifts” to be used in expanding on exciting
Communicating context. The sheer size of the com-
quarry history.
plex and the adjoining quarry grounds mean the
complex can only be presented as an exhibit in its
Any changes in building materials were made ob-
own right. The exhibitions outlined above are all
vious and realised as add-ons so that the original
themed exhibitions, graphic-based and follow a
industrial monument could be retained as a historic
thematic thread from space to space. They have a
document easily interpreted by the visiting public.
concomitant and interpretative character in keep-
Repairs or serious structural changes would only
ing with the communication concept.
be made when essential.
The renovation work and museum display of the
Imitations or reproductions were not permitted.
relics from the industrial past will encourage visi-
Building materials were chosen to highlight the
tors to trace their own identity and history. This will
historical heritage and traditional handicrafts were
be especially true for people or relatives of people
used to create appropriate detail. But even this can
who used to work at the quarry and who will be
clearly be identified as an addition, for example the
able to relive their connection to the local indus-
pre-set windows. This was the only way not to un-
trial heritage. Industrial spoil heaps are a manipula-
dermine the building’s architecture, or better said,
tion of the landscape that can be transformed into
the only way of keeping the original windows and
a multitude of uses, from planting schemes using
still meeting the requirement of providing a ther-
today’s ancestors of the fossilized plants to leisure
mal insulation envelope.
activities such as mountain biking on a cutout bike
trail. This is the best way for visitors to experience a
The theme for the building envelope and the ma-
real, authentic environment and be certain that they
chinery will also be extended to the exhibits. The
have not been immersed into a false, virtual world.
higgledy piggledy layout of the buildings, the
crusher, sieving machine and crushing works in-
The fossil collection. Initial discussion of how the
cluding the entire utilities supply structure requires
fossil finds slot into Germany’s national geotourism
a tailor made solution.
concluded that the collection represents a crucial
stage in the evolution of today’s flora and fauna and
The exhibitions will be designed to be both indi-
ultimately man. The presentation will consequently
vidual and in keeping with an overall theme. The
cover the last 65 million years of geology, focusing
thematic and graphic design will include tales from
on the tertiary era. Beginning with the extinction
the quarry’s working days. The scheme has already
of the dinosaurs, the story line of changing climate
been implemented to some extent as can be seen
and evolution will be evident throughout the exhi-
by the transformation of the old workshop into
bition. The result will be a “tertiary era experience
70 STÖFFEL-PARK
Fig. 12: The flagship of the fossil collection, the Stöffel Gliding Mouse (Photo: erdgeschichte)
room”. There will also be a geological dig at the
information on the volcanic activity of the tertiary
centre itself where visitors will be able to investi-
era in the Westerwald Forest will be on display. The
gate findings for themselves. There specialist tours
creation of basalt and the dramatic end to the En-
of the excavations are also planned.
spel maar lake by basalt flooding will of course be
explained.
The complex did not include a building suitable
for the tertiary experience as the fossil exhibits are
Renovated dumping cells will exhibit the produc-
very fragile. A new building is going to be built, a
tion process for paving stones and the reasons for
regional information centre, which will integrate the
and beginnings of basalt mining at Stöffel.
exhibition. The information centre will also display
tourism attractions in the Westerwald Forest region.
The historic workshop. The heart of the industrial
There will be a room available for conferences, lec-
complex was the workshop. During the first half of
tures and celebrations. As a mark of respect to the
the previous century open wagons to transport the
heritage buildings the centre will be buried in a
basalt were built here, tools were repaired, metal
spoil heap and so the visitor will be faced with no
forged and trimmed. In effect, all the metal work
more than a narrow entrance facade.
necessary to operate a quarry was carried out here.
In the “Historical Workshop Experience”, i. e. the
Industrial use. The industrial use of basalt and the
quarry as it was at the time quarrying ceased, will
various functions of the buildings and machines
be recreated designed in keeping with the other ex-
will be explored in one of the crusher buildings un-
hibitions.
der the title “Basalt Experience”. The machines and
work processes will be displayed under the working
Café/Bistro Kohlenschuppen (Coal Shed Café). No
title “The Basalt Way”. The building will be entered
tourism attraction is complete without a café and
along the old conveyer belt up to the 4th floor from
Stöffel Park is no exception. The coal sheds and
where the visitor will be led to a large hall where
the energy generator building, later material storehouse, will be converted to form a café bistro and
toilet block.
Basalt Auditorium. Following discussion of how to
introduce visitors to the attractions awaiting them
at Stöffel Park, it was decided to construct a basalt
stage similar to an amphitheatre in an old hopper.
It has seating for 400 and could also be used as an
open air events stage.
Future. The cultural programme at Stöffel will need
Fig. 13: Excavation site (Photo: erdgeschichte/T. Bizer)
careful planning and clearly defined scheduling. A
71
long process of discussion and persuasion has preceded the eventual plan. The process required participants to have a certain flexibility in planning and
development ideas – and this will be a continuing
requirement for the foreseeable future.
Landscaping and preservation of historical traces
(e. g. the damage caused by the wheel loader on the
silos) still need a lot of planning. The ultimate aim is
to create a tertiary geology park where today’s descendents of the tertiary plants from the time of the
fossil deposit can grow. The park will also set aside
Fig. 15: Creative workshop in the old administration building
(Photo: Stöffel Park)
an area where nature is left to its own devices. A
lake is planned, a “climate house” where visitors
can experience thermophilic tertiary plants, a small
crocodile farm and live flying squirrels – which are
not dissimilar to the Stöffel flying mouse.
When quarry production stopped, both public and
politicians were initially committed to demolition
of the complex, leaving just one symbolic crusher
house. It took a while to counteract this thinking
with an economically viable scheme supported by
the statement that, “Whatever is not removed to-
Fig. 16: Regenbogenschule Westerburg “What actually is basalt?”
(Photo: Stöffel Park)
day can always be demolished later should no use
be found for it.” There is enormous potential for
Stöffel Park – if it can react to social developments
in leisure time activity requirements and adapt accordingly.
Fig. 14: Look-out tower at Stöffel Park (Photo: Meyer)
73
Authors
Dr. Paul Bergweiler
Arbeitskreis Natur- und Umweltschutz Asbacher Land
Hohn 26, 53578 Windhagen
E-Mail: [email protected]
www.anual-ev.de
Ulrike Geise
Geise & Partner
Obere Rehwiese 5, 97279 Prosselsheim
Tel.: 09386 90161
Fax: 09386 90162
www.geise-und-partner.de
Heiko Himmler
IUS Weibel & Ness GmbH
Bergheimer Straße 53–57, 69115 Heidelberg
Tel.: 06221 13830-0
Fax: 06221 13830-29
www.weibel-ness.de
Burkhard Kern
pro Terra
Büro für Vegetationskunde, Tier- & Landschaftsökologie
Nizzaallee 15, 52072 Aachen
Tel.: 0241 911197
Christine Meyer
Fax: 0241 9973812
W.RÖTH GmbH Landschaftsarchitekten BDLA
Kaiser-Wilhelm-Ring 14, 92224 Amberg
www.pro-terra-gbr.de
Tel.: 09621 23319
Fax: 09621 24232
Ralph Voigt
www.roeth-gmbh.de
Niederlassung
Bergisch-Westerwälder Hartsteinwerke
Martin A. Glöckner
Linzhausenstraße 20, 53545 Linz am Rhein
Dipl.-Landschaftsökologe
Heldstraße 27, 47533 Kleve
www.basalt.de
Tel.: 0177 8958218
Dr. Michael Wuttke
Generaldirektion Kulturelles Erbe
Stefan Dorstewitz und Anke Kätzel
Direktion Archäologie – Erdgeschichte –
Dr. U.-E. Dorstewitz & Partner
Große Langgasse 29, 55116 Mainz
Finkenweg 13, 38644 Goslar-Hahndorf
Tel.: 06131 2016-400
Tel.: 05321 3414-0
Fax: 06131 2016-444
Fax: 05321 3414-99
www.drdop.de
Bernd Freihaut
m3-baukunst, Architekten BDA
Mollerstraße 36, 64289 Darmstadt
Tel.: 06151 710508
Fax: 06151 712829
Publisher
Hauptverwaltung
Linzhausenstraße 20
53545 Linz am Rhein
Tel.: +49 (0) 2644 563-0
Fax: +49 (0) 2644 563-169
www.basalt.de
74
Editorial Office
Christoph Aumüller, Basalt-Actien-Gesellschaft
Concept and Design
akenzo Kommunikation, Koblenz, www.akenzo.de
Paper
This report was printed on certified sustainable forest
management Galaxi Supermat coated paper.
Water Frog (Rana kl. esculenta), (Photo: Claus Umbreit)
75
Registered Office
Linzhausenstraße 20
53545 Linz am Rhein
Telephone:
Fax: +49 (0) 2644 563-0
+49 (0) 2644 563-169
www.basalt.de

habitats - Basalt-Actien

Transcription

Similar documents

Pulgar Maria Lorente

PrimeFilm 1800 AFL Low-Cost 35mm Slide/Film Scanning Through

alamo quarry market - American Assets Trust

MODEL 324 ADDENDUM Please make the ,following changes in

Статья

2008 Suzuki GSXR750

2007-2008 Ducati Monster S4R/S

Tivoli Gazebo

Brochure - Habitat for Zoomanity A Life Science Webquest

R - imeko