Kies-und Schotterwerk Kreuzfeld

Objective

The restoration of the Holstein lake areas into a refuge for endangered species and a nature conservation area through the use of regenerative energy sources.

Context

Since the KSK Kies activities started in 70’s, they have had a commitment with the biodiversity of their extraction areas. The gravel plant hosted the Eastern Holstein area’s largest colony of sand martins and also it has became the breeding location for the protected eagle owl. KSK Kies’ gravel pits provides a potential biotope for endangered plant and animal species.

Actions

The use of wind power to generate energy to supply the Kreuzfeld plant.

The creation of the erratic boulder park to create awareness of the Schleswig-Holstein area.

The creation of a recultivation area of 70 ha with deciduous trees, small water ponds with shallow zones, dry grassland locations, traditional meadow orchards and a steep slope where sand martins breed.

Result

The conservation and protection of endangered species such as the sand martin, the kingfishers, shelducks and little ringed plovers.

The extraction areas are now: a research area for biologists and fossils collectors, a training area used by the German Federal Navy for water collection and rope exercises, a place for recreational activities and a place for youth camps.