Deep within Dortmund’s Lütgendortmund district lies a hidden gem. This is the Naturschutzgebiet Dellwiger Bachtal. Established in 1986, this nature reserve spans over 112 hectares.
The Dellwiger Bachtal is a testament to nature’s resilience. The Dellwiger Bach, once a mere wastewater channel, was transformed. In 1982, the Emschergenossenschaft began the work to revive it. The Dellwiger Bach was freed from its concrete confines. An underground sewage canal was built simultaneously. Today, over 250 species thrive in its waters. Larvae, flying insects, crustaceans, and fish have all returned.
At the heart of the Naturschutzgebiet Dellwiger Bachtal flows the Dellwiger Bach. This is a renatured stream. It is surrounded by extensive deciduous forests, fallow lands, and marshy areas. Small woodlands dot the landscape. The old beech and oak mixed forests are vital. Siepen, spring zones, and natural streams with ponds are found here. Reedbeds and reeds flourish along the water’s edge.
The Dellwiger Bachtal is a haven for diverse wildlife. After the renaturation of the Dellwiger Bach and Katzbach between 1982 and 1986, many birds returned. Buzzards, tawny owls, water rails, and whitethroats nest here. The area is also home to amphibians. Fire salamanders, smooth newts, grass frogs, and natterjacks thrive. Even the elusive viviparous lizard finds refuge here.
The Naturschutzgebiet Dellwiger Bachtal is a popular place for recreation. But its popularity presents challenges. Walkers and unleashed dogs can disturb the resident wildlife.
The primary goal is to protect and develop the Dellwiger Bach’s biotope complex. This includes preserving old-growth forests. Conservation efforts focus on maintaining wet grassland sites. The still waters and forest streams are also protected. Extensive use of fallow land prevents overgrowth. Nettles and blackberries are kept at bay.
The Naturschutzgebiet Dellwiger Bachtal is a unique place. In the west an old, now wooded, mine dump of the former Zollern mine exists. The narrow stream is mostly grown with woods. Open land structures with ponds are in the deeper, eastern part of the conservation area. Reed zones and grassland are found here. Two tributary valleys from the north are covered in mixed deciduous forest. The southwest part is occupied by a large mixed deciduous forest area. It is the Deipenbecker forest. Beeches are predominant. Oaks and alder are subordinate. Several side streams of the Dellwiger Bach flow through the forest.
The Dellwiger Bachtal shows what conservation can achieve. Once a wastewater channel, it is now a vibrant habitat. It is home to diverse species and a place of recreation. The Naturschutzgebiet Dellwiger Bachtal invites you to explore its beauty. Take a walk and experience its natural wonders.