Green Belt: A treasure for biodiversity and new habitats!

Green Belt: A treasure for biodiversity and new habitats!

A lot has happened in the beautiful Saxony-Anhalt region in recent years - and for good reason. The Green Belt in particular, once known as the inner German death strip, has established itself as a place of biodiversity and nature conservation. Dieter Leupold, a native of Hamburg and project manager for the Green Belt, looks back proudly on the developments. He reports that before the border was opened, he enviously looked east to admire the rare butterflies and majestic birds of prey that lived there.

Since the years of reunification, the Green Belt has developed into a valuable biotope network. Leupold emphasizes the importance of preserving and promoting biodiversity in this region. Dedicated work has been carried out to protect these important habitats, especially the wetlands. But, as Leupold notes, Saxony-Anhalt has the largest gaps in the biotope network. This is due to the intensive agricultural use in areas with fertile soils, such as the Magdeburger Börde.

The focus on nature conservation

The loss of the Salzwedel city forest, which was sold to a private individual, is all the more regrettable. The BUND, for which Leupold works, is particularly committed to the care of the salt marshes in Hoyersburg as well as the Brietzer ponds near Salzwedel and the Cheiner peat bog. Efforts are currently moving to Harper Moor near Arendsee, where the natural water level is to be restored. The creation of new small bodies of water is a central point in order to settle amphibians, which are of great importance for the endangered adder.

This development clearly shows that nature conservation is becoming increasingly important today. The collaboration of different organizations and institutions is essential to preserve nature and protect our environment.

A look beyond the borders