Swerock AB

Objective

The conservation objective is to protect insects such as rare wild-bee species.

Context

This sand pit has been supplying the nearby Swerock concrete factory since early 1960’s. However, local sand from the area has been utilized for road construction earlier than that. Today the concrete factory is closed and the activity in the pit terminated 20 years ago. During the sand extraction period remarkable slopes were created. Today, theses slopes contain a large variety of pollen- and nectar producing herbs and also supply rare insects with nesting areas. Recently, this pit was target of an insect inventory and the results were surprising: In this sand pit there is an exceptional high biodiversity of aculeate wasps.

Solution

Environmental specialists recommend creating a protected nature reserve at this site. In particular, the following practical nature conservation actions are promoted: deforestation, removing grass vegetation, managing the sandy slopes and also to conduct mowing in order to manage and the important herb stands. This quarry also has the potential to become a more significant target for educational visits and recreation. Therefore, the County Administration Board has plans for continuing and developing specific information such as brochures, guiding events and paths at this site.

Result

Today, this pit is visited by students, researchers and entomologists who are interested in the exceptional fauna. Local people also use this area for recreation.

Partners

The nature conservation unit at the County Administration Board in Kalmar.