Riparian forest in Młodzawy

Riparian forests are some of the richest and most endangered natural habitats in the world. These are wet or damp forests, formed on peats or alluvial soil, occurring in valleys of rivers, streams, often within the floodplain. These are very fertile forests, with a dense undergrowth and a lush, tangled groundcover, slimy and hard to reach. Habitats of this type are a rare sight these days, as the trees were cut down and the areas were dried out and intended for meadows or pastures.

The largest area of dense riparian forest in Ponidzie has over 120 ha and is located near the village of Młodzawy. This is the ash-alder riparian forest. In order to maintain optimal conditions for the development of the habitat, it is necessary to perform a number of treatments, e.g.: to clear and build small water retention structures (drainage ditches and gates) to stabilize water conditions.