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Description
The aim of the project is to ensure optimal conditions for the survival of rare species of plants and animals in 12 "steppe" localities in the care of land trusts. The way to this is a set of measures, including in particular the maintenance or restoration of forestless areas and bright sparse woodland.
Summary of project results
Xerothermic and sub-xerothermic sites represent some of the most biologically valuable and simultaneously most threatened habitats in our landscape. These unique ecosystems, characterized by dry and warm conditions, are home to a range of rare and endangered plant and animal species, often dependent on specific microclimatic conditions and vegetation structure. Unfortunately, these sites face numerous threats, including encroachment by non-native woody species, natural succession leading to forestation, and changes in land management practices, which can result in the loss of biodiversity and degradation of these valuable habitats.
One of the most effective tools for protecting xerothermic and sub-xerothermic sites are land trusts, which play a crucial role in the long-term stewardship of these areas. Land trusts not only take over these sites for management but also, in many cases, purchase them to ensure their protection from inappropriate use or transformation. This long-term care involves various management interventions essential for preserving the natural values of these habitats.
Our project focuses on ensuring the long-term improvement of 12 selected "steppe" sites managed by land trusts. The primary goal of the project is to create and maintain optimal conditions for the survival of rare plant and animal species that depend on these sites. To achieve this goal, we employ a set of measures aimed at the protection and restoration of natural open habitats and sparse, light-penetrated woody vegetation, which are key elements for maintaining biodiversity. These measures include regular maintenance of grasslands, removal of invasive woody species and plants, control of successional processes, and managed grazing or mowing, which help maintain the open character of these sites. Emphasis is also placed on the restoration of traditional land management practices, which are natural for these biotopes, and on minimizing the negative impacts caused by changes in the landscape. The aim of these activities is not only to preserve the current state but also to improve it, which is crucial for the long-term protection of biodiversity and ecological stability of these valuable sites. The project thus contributes to the preservation of natural heritage and increases the resilience of these ecosystems to negative external influences.
As part of the project, we implemented 38 measures across 12 selected sites. Among other activities, we maintained 9 sites through mowing, removed invasive woody plants from 7 sites, and controlled invasive plant species, such as Canadian goldenrod, Canadian poplar, and black locust, on 7 sites. Two sites were managed through grazing by a mixed herd. We constructed beetle habitats, planted 50 trees, and installed 6 special insect houses at one site. All these activities were carried out to preserve and promote the biodiversity of the sites. The measures taken at the project sites positively impacted 67 species (27 plant species and 40 animal species) from the Red Lists and 4 habitats from the Red List of Habitats.
The implementation of project activities has significantly contributed to the enhancement and preservation of the biological diversity in the "steppe" localities. These efforts have not only directly supported the target species of plants, animals, and biotopes but have also fostered overall ecosystem health. The restoration and maintenance of these unique habitats create a more resilient environment, benefiting a wide range of species beyond those initially targeted. Moreover, these activities have improved the ecological quality and aesthetic value of the sites, making them more attractive and educational for all visitors. By promoting biodiversity and ensuring the sustainability of these precious landscapes, the project has provided a richer experience for nature enthusiasts, researchers, and the general public, who can now appreciate the thriving natural heritage of these areas.