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Description
The aim of the projects i to Iiprovement of habitat conditions of serpentinite bound Red list species incl. endemic Minuartia Smejkalii; improvement of habitat conditions and restoration of Red list biotope - perialpidic pine forests and serpentinite biotopes of Red list species; standardization and improvement of serpentinite pine forests management through creation of Management methodology; awareness raising and promotion of the Borovsko serpentinite area to ensure long-term conservation.
Summary of project results
The serpentine sandwort (Minuartia smejkalii) is a rare and critically endangered plant that grows exclusively on serpentine rocks in the Czech Republic. This endemic species is found in only a few locations in Central Bohemia, particularly in the Podblanicko region and around Mohelno. The serpentine sandwort is a small plant with delicate white flowers, adapted to the harsh conditions of serpentine soils, which are low in nutrients and contain toxic elements. Due to this specialization, its survival is very fragile and depends on the preservation of the specific habitats where this unique plant occurs.
We focused the project on the restoration of peri-Alpine pine forests and the support of endangered species in the central part of the serpentine massif, specifically in areas outside protected zones. These locations had been significantly degraded, and serpentine vegetation was in decline. Our goal was not only to restore the original beauty of these rare ecosystems but also to ensure better conditions for the growth of endangered plants and animals that depend on these specific habitats.
The main goals of the project were:
1. Revitalization of peri-Alpine pine forests
We aimed to restore the health and diversity of these unique forests, which play a key role in the serpentine ecosystems. The restoration of the forests included caring for the original vegetation, removing invasive species, and supporting natural regeneration.
2. Improving conditions for endangered species and creating new populations of the serpentine sandwort
The serpentine sandwort (Minuartia smejkalii) is one of the rarest plants in the Czech Republic, requiring specific conditions for growth. We focused the project on improving habitats for species listed in the Red List and on creating new, healthy populations of the serpentine sandwort.
3. Developing a management methodology for serpentine pine forests
To ensure the long-term protection of these valuable habitats, we developed a methodology that unifies the management of serpentine areas not only within the National Natural Monument but also in areas outside protected zones. This methodology is intended to serve as a guide for future activities in managing serpentine vegetation.
4. Raising awareness and promoting serpentine habitats near Borovsko
One of the key aspects of the project was to raise public awareness. Our goal was to increase understanding of the importance of serpentine habitats and their protection. The promotion included organizing educational events, publishing informational materials, and collaborating with local communities.
Through this project, we not only protected unique ecosystems but also ensured that future generations can admire and protect these rare natural sites.
We approached the restoration of the habitat with a carefully designed combination of measures. Clearing the overgrown vegetation significantly improved the light conditions necessary for the growth of target species and partially contributed to drying out the area. Regular mowing helped reduce competitive pressure among plants. To restore direct contact with the serpentine substrate for most species, we removed the humus layer and planted pre-cultivated serpentine sandwort on the prepared areas.
The revitalization included not only the clearing and thinning of overgrowth but also mowing the reed canary grass and building fenced enclosures to support the natural and artificial regeneration of the pine forest. We planted 1,050 serpentine sandwort plants in 19 locations, with over 87% of them successfully taking root. Additionally, we observed a significant number of newly germinated plants. Although the mortality rate of the planted pines was relatively high, natural regeneration is occurring. The clearing of overgrowth also had a positive effect on the forest’s light conditions, benefiting the target species.
During the biological survey, we discovered 570 insect species, 36 of which are listed on red lists of endangered species. One of the species found was even considered extinct. We also identified 234 species of fungi, including one that had not yet been described.
Through excursions and informational activities, we significantly raised awareness of the issues surrounding serpentine pines and their existence outside of specially protected areas. The long-term impact of the project is ensured by the new methodology for pine care and the publications produced as part of the project.
The main contribution of the project lies in the restoration of valuable habitats and the unification of land management, which is crucial for the long-term sustainability of the interventions carried out. Historically, the pine forests were grazed, and without active management, it is impossible to maintain their specific habitat. During the restoration process, we also established so-called "stepping stones" to facilitate the connection between populations and the spread of serpentine species to other suitable habitats.
One of the most significant outcomes is our collaboration with Lesy České republiky (Forests of the Czech Republic) on the restoration of these areas, which will continue even after the project concludes. As part of the preparation of the new forest management plan for 2024-2034, forestry operations on the project sites have been adjusted to align with the management required for the target serpentine species. This means, for example, that there will be no deliberate logging, but only the removal of dead trees. Additionally, the species composition for reforestation will be adjusted to favor Scots pine, and other appropriate management tools will be implemented for this area.
The project also initiated a tripartite agreement between Lesy České republiky, the Nature Conservation Agency, and the Central Bohemian Region. The aim of this agreement is to ensure contractual protection of the area and to secure funding for ongoing habitat management activities.
Summary of bilateral results
Bilateral cooperation led to increased awareness of the project’s implementation both in the Czech Republic and at the University of Oslo. However, the partner was involved only in the preparation of the project and in setting up suitable methods for impact assessment. The original intention was to also implement a student exchange between the University of Oslo and the Institute of Botany of the Czech Academy of Sciences within the project. However, due to a lack of financial resources, this intention was abandoned.