Piggastan sand dunes
Description of the project
What started as a state funded nature restoration project in 2019 has developed into a testbed for conservation measures and an area to show off to other colleagues. The site hosts a large population of the endangered flowering plant Sand pink (Dianthus arenaris subsp. arenarius). This species only grows in Southern Sweden and the Baltic states. Sand pink requires very special conditions to thrive.
Among them is calcareous sand and plenty of sunlight. The conservation measures are being carefully documented to be able to evaluate their effect. The area is small but serves as an important steppingstone for species dispersal in a larger area. It is also valuable for the residents of Åhus for recreation and relaxation. Neighbours and locals have been involved throughout the restoration process.
Results and effects
Sand pink has already spread to newly restored areas. Many neighbours have expressed that they feel the area has been improved compared to before the project started.
Focal points:
- The focus of the project has been to benefit biodiversity by restoring the area and therefore protecting the rare and endangered organism found there (1)
- The restored site also serves as a place to take groups and show how we work with nature conservation (3)
- This project is a good example of how to inform the public about nature conservation-projects and involving them in the decisions (4)