Workshop regarding floristic biodiversity of postindustrial areas

• the natural and landscape complex of “Żabie Doły”,
• the dolomite heap in Tarnowskie Góry,
• the „Blachówka” quarry in Bytom,
• reclaimed dolomite quarry “Sportowa Dolina” (Sports Valley),
• the water reservoir and old solvay process tip in Jaworzno.
  

    During our workshop we concentrated on recognizing and naming different species of plants, such as Lotus corniculatus, Scabiosa ochroleuca, Thymus pulegioides, Ranunculus repen, Carlina vulgaris and Typha latifolia, Phragmites australis, Reynoutria japonica. We also learnt how to use the scientific method of describing and recognizing plants with the help of a floristic guidebook. Furthermore, we were taught how to prepare a professional catalogue of plants.

    Being on the tip we found ourselves at most surprised by the information provided by the guide concerning the amount of heavy metals contained in the surface layer of the tip ground. Regardless these extremely difficult living conditions, most of the plants have developed special adapting mechanisms making it possible for them to survive in this area. The foundings concerning morphology changes of the species might be taken into consideration by the scientists or local authorities working on the new methods of recultivating the postindustrial sites.