1244 | 773 | Management of post-mining water bodies in the Silesian Metropolis, Poland

A characteristic feature of the contemporary landscape of the Silesian Metropolis (Poland) is the occurrence of thousands of small water bodies within its borders. Most of them are of anthropogenic origin. They were created in excavations after opencast mining of raw rock materials and in subsidence troughs made as a result of underground mining of hard coal. They were also created as breeding ponds, fire-fighting reservoirs, etc. Three main approaches can be distinguished in the management of post-mining water bodies, namely: 1) liquidation by backfilling (e.g., waste rock), 2) development for recreational or utility purposes, and 3) leaving without development. The latter approach was practiced mainly in the initial period of the socialist economy. After several dozen years, around many such undeveloped water bodies, a spontaneous renewal of nature took place. These areas became naturally valuable and, in many cases, are legally protected due to their landscape and natural values. Although many water bodies are characterized by polluted waters (and bottom sediments), their importance in the so-called low retention is appreciated, especially in climate change conditions.

Renata Dulias
University of Silesia in Katowice, Faculty of Natural Sciences

ID Abstract: 773