The decaying tree park in the city of Äänekoski supports biodiversity
The decaying wood park in Häränvirta in the city of Äänekoski contributes to the diversity of nature, i.e. the variation of different habitats and the organisms that live in them. The approximately hectare-sized area diversifies the nearby green areas of the city of Äänekoski, because the park imitates the natural development of the forest.
Lahopuupuisto was established in 2015 to diversify the city's green areas. Häränvirta rotting tree park is located along the Äänekoski beach track from Rauhankatu to Häränvirta bridge, continuing along Häränvirta beach to the water intake. The park is bordered by the beach and beautiful lake views open up from there.
- The idea of Lahopuupuisto was born from the birches that grew in the area, already in poor condition and large, which had to be cut down. The removal of the trunks was perceived as a waste of materials, and that is how the idea of the city's first neighborhood rotting tree park was born, the city gardener Tiina Nejlik says.
Diversity is a basic requirement for a successful life. Nowadays, the reason for the endangerment of more and more species is the change in habitats, and one significant change is the reduction of decaying wood.
- Leaving the rotting tree is controlled, but the events after that are largely spontaneous processes of nature. Lahopuupuisto is maintained to the extent that it is safe, for example, to go outside, Nejlik describes.
The city has installed bat huts in the decaying tree park, and the residents of the area have purchased tent huts there.
Many species use rotting wood as food or growth medium. At different stages of decay, decaying wood is used by different organisms. Organisms that depend on rotting wood and use it can be found in e.g. fungi, beetles, dipterans and weevils. Decaying trees are also important for several mosses and lichens, which use decaying wood as their growth medium.
For more information:
City gardener Tiina Nejlik, 040 528 5553, tiina.nejlik@aanekoski.fi
News published 28.2.2023, modified 24.4.2023/11/29 at XNUMX:XNUMX
