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Description
The aim of the project is to improve the condition of 12 selected sites on an area of 10.9 ha through their restoration and the follow-up care. We want to prepare the restoration of other meadows with the occurrence of protected species, through negotiations with the owners, or finding new sites and implementing the necessary measures. To continue the project, it is necessary to secure additional funding, negotiate with local cities to ensure maintenance, involve volunteers and raise public awareness.
Summary of project results
Thanks to this project, we were able to begin the restoration of valuable but long-neglected meadow areas throughout the Liberec region. We focused on the conservation of threatened meadow habitats where rare plant species listed in the Red Lists of the Czech Republic are found. These meadows had often been left fallow for various reasons, leading to a gradual decline in species diversity and a degradation of their ecological value. Our primary goal was not only to preserve these valuable habitats but also to increase the area of natural sites where endangered species occur through targeted and active care.
As part of the project, we aimed to improve the condition of at least 20 locations in the region and protect 20 endangered plant species from the Red List. In addition to direct care for these sites, we also engaged in public awareness and education to help people understand the importance of preserving and protecting these rare ecosystems. This project thus contributed not only to the protection of biodiversity but also to strengthening ecological awareness in the region.
The most important activity for supporting biodiversity was the implementation of measures focused on species protection and the preservation of endangered natural habitats outside of specially protected areas. The primary restoration efforts included the removal of overgrown shrubs, clearing of old vegetation, regular mowing and biomass removal, and the eradication of invasive plant species. Without proper care, these valuable meadows—and the habitats they provide for endangered species of plants and animals—would gradually disappear from our landscape.
However, this care was preceded by a time-consuming preparation process, which involved identifying the most suitable locations, working closely with botanists, negotiating with landowners, and obtaining all necessary permits. These steps allowed us to effectively proceed with the restoration of meadow biodiversity.
We also successfully raised public awareness about the importance of this project. Educational activities took place during volunteer events, on social media, during botanical excursions, and through the creation of a dedicated website focused on meadow biodiversity. In this way, we not only supported the protection of these areas but also increased awareness of the importance of restoring and caring for meadow ecosystems.
We successfully managed the care of 22 sites covering a total area of 19.5 hectares, implementing 63 different measures over three years. On these sites, we recorded the presence of 32 endangered plant species listed in the Czech Republic''s Red List. Through these efforts, we improved the condition of all 22 locations, which are now freely accessible to the public.
We engaged 310 volunteers in the care of these sites, including students from local schools, employees from various companies, and international students. This collaboration with such a diverse group of volunteers not only strengthened community bonds but also raised awareness about the importance of nature conservation.
As part of our project, we also issued 10 press releases to inform the public about our activities and progress. In addition, we published 5 videos that visually documented our work and served as educational tools for a broader audience. In this way, we not only ensured direct care for natural sites but also contributed to spreading awareness about the need for their protection.