Greening of the Gränichen gravel works

Once gravel extraction in the gravel pits is complete, the area is filled with excavated material and finally covered with humus. The areas must then be revegetated.

The Gränichen site has a fairly steep slope. It was therefore important to quickly re-green the areas. In order to preserve ecologically valuable, species-rich grassland, the decision was made to use mowing/seed transfer. This method had already achieved good results in the previous year adjacent to the fallow area.

The gravel pit operators leveled the area with a bulldozer, then a local organic farmer brought freshly cut green waste (not yet seeded, no mold) in bale form.

The task of the volunteers was to distribute the green waste as evenly as possible over the entire area. The green waste was able to dry quickly and sow seeds thanks to the stable weather conditions.

The advantage of seed transfer is that locally available, site-appropriate plant species can multiply. These grow quickly and offer good erosion protection. At the same time, important microorganisms and small animals are transferred. In the coming years, the meadow will become an important habitat and source of food for various animal species.