Quarry recultivation concept

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Objective

The recultivation of the Weisenau quarry was already in its advanced stages before the initial rehabilitation plan changed. The basic principle of the new project was conservation of the already finished recultivated and renaturated areas, thus nature conservation.

Context

For more than one hundred years the Weisenau quarry supplied raw materials to the Mainz-Weisenau cement plant. Upon completion of the mining activities, a recultivation project began, destined for agricultural purposes. However, in 2004, the final objective of the project became the transformation of the area into nature conservation and local recreation.

The quarry is characterised by a large number of structural characteristic sand biotops. These biotopes offer a living space for a high number of animal species and plant species.

Solutions

New habitats will be created through the recultivation and renaturation measures. For their current and permanent conservation and development, maintenance concepts are necessary. The arable lands were converted into meadow areas. Therefore, HeidelbergCement reached an agreement with the city of Mainz that the new recultivation concept would be only a master plan. Likewise, a study group HC/city Mainz "recultivation Weisenau" was set up. A nature trail for visitors, with information boards, surrounds the area.

Results

Big parts of the quarry will be left for natural development and nature conservation. In 2015, control (monitoring) must be carried out. Within the scope of nature trails around the quarries, guided tours, information boards and open door days, HeidelbergCement can demonstrate to the general public the contribution of the cement industry to nature conservation.