EXPLORING NATURE'S TREASURES IN THE LESPEZI QUARRY: ORCHID SPECIES AND THEIR ADAPTABILITY IN MINING CONDITIONS

Recent field activities carried out in the Lespezi quarry perimeter have provided a detailed and convincing picture of the biological value of this space. We have carried out a systematic photographic documentation of the floristic species of conservation interest, including details about microhabitats, soil structure and associated plants, in order to understand the real ecological dynamics in which these sensitive species evolve. Advanced forms of plant succession have been noted, but also the spontaneous emergence of interesting patterns of coexistence – a sign of an ongoing functional regeneration. In addition to the floristic aspects, the terrain has revealed a special situation from a faunal point of view: the frequent presence of bears in the vicinity and even inside the quarry perimeter. The phenomenon is visibly recurrent and, in the absence of specific measures, can lead to risk situations – both for animals and for technical personnel or for the integrity of the activities carried out in the area. In an environment with unstable slopes and stone quarrying, the danger of a bear being injured is very real and must be anticipated responsibly.
Proposals for strategic ecological intervention
1. Protecting floristic biodiversity through green micro-infrastructures
It is proposed to arrange moisture retention micro-structures, consisting of minimal terraces and slow water accumulations, in areas with rich spontaneous vegetation. This measure will contribute to reducing dust, maintaining a microclimate favorable to hygrophilous species and supporting natural plant succession, without invasive interventions.
2. Managing large fauna – preventing human-bear conflicts
To reduce the risk of bears entering the active area of the quarry, it is recommended to implement an infrastructure of feeding and shelter buffer points, located outside the exploitation perimeter. These would consist of:
1. partially covered shelters, made of natural materials, which provide a temporary refuge area in the hot season;
2. weekly feeding points, managed together with the forestry authorities, to attract animals outside the industrial perimeter;
3. monitoring with trap-cam cameras to observe behavior and adapt the action plan according to seasonality and frequency of presence.
These measures would have a double impact: on the one hand, they would prevent possible accidents or injuries to bears in the industrial area; on the other hand, they would provide an example of responsible coexistence between biodiversity conservation and the conduct of industrial activities within a regulated framework.
The Lespezi quarry offers a rare opportunity to transform an exploited space into a model of functional ecological reconversion, with real benefits for flora, fauna and safety. By integrating simple but effective technical measures – from moisture retention in micro-habitats to the protection of large fauna through prevention mechanisms – we can build a replicable precedent in other similar post-industrial areas in Europe.