Haven’t you noticed how the air changes as you approach? This is the NSG Kruckeler Wald. It is a natural sanctuary. It plays a vital role in Dortmund’s biodiversity.
This protected area spans over 52 hectares. It offers a refuge for many plant and animal species. The NSG Kruckeler Wald is more than just trees. It is a complex web of life. It contributes to the region’s ecological health.
Designated as a nature reserve, the Kruckeler Wald has been legally protected since 2020. This designation underscores its importance. It aims to preserve and develop habitats. These habitats support threatened species. It also protects unique landscape structures.
Here old forests thrive. Small stream valleys called “Bachsiepen” carve through the landscape. Extensively used open land adds to the diversity. These elements contribute to the area’s ecological richness.
The Kruckeler Wald is an unfragmented space. It offers refuge from the disturbances of modern life. It helps protect the local climate. The forest contributes to cleaner air and a more stable environment.
Within the Kruckeler Wald lies a mosaic of valuable biotopes. The Kruckeler Wald itself is one such biotope. It is a large, strongly defined forest. It is located in the northwest of Dortmund-Schnee.
A strip of grassland borders the forest to the west. This strip is partially used for grazing. It stretches between 50 and 150 meters wide. The forest extends in a north-south direction.
Deciduous trees dominate the Kruckeler Wald. Patches of coniferous forest and red oak forest are also present. Red oaks are more common in the southern part of the forest. Native trees are more prevalent in the north.
Ancient beech and oak forests stand tall. They feature large trees and significant holly. These forests thrive along the Flaßpothe-Siepen. They also flourish on the northwest edge.
Beech mixed forests also exist. These forests feature larch trees. You can see even-aged beech saplings. Other species include holly and wood sorrel. White wood-rush grows here too.
Several near-natural stream valleys cut through the forest. They run east to west. Alder forests line some of these streams. In the southwest, black alder and ash trees grow along a stream. A lush meadow with tall plants thrives here too.
A heavily used horse pasture sits in the middle of the area. The grassland to the west varies. The northern part is mostly fertile meadow. The southern part is used for sheep grazing. Some areas are unused with sparse vegetation. Young birch trees grow as pioneer species here. There’s also a mixed deciduous reforestation area. Rows of oak trees and small shrubs dot the landscape.
The Kruckeler Wald has valuable old-growth forests. Natural stream areas and adjacent grasslands are important. They contribute to the regional network of connected habitats.
Efforts are underway to convert larch and red oak stands. The goal is to promote native tree species. Occasional mowing helps maintain the open grasslands. These efforts enhance the ecological value.
The Kruckeler Wald is a place of natural beauty. It provides a vital habitat. It contributes to the health of the region. Take a moment to appreciate this precious natural space. Let us cherish and protect the Kruckeler Wald.