Field Study and Technical Visit Report

Project Title: From Quarries to Artificial Ecosystems: Sustainable Solutions for Biodiversity
Participants: Project coordinator, Akçansa representative, and site manager (quarry official)

SUMMARY

As part of our QLA project, monitoring studies for fauna and flora were carried out at various points within the quarry site. These observation points were identified as stations, and GPS coordinates were recorded. At least three different stations were selected for bird observation, with photographs taken and associated vegetation information documented.

The aim of this initial field study was to become familiar with the site, identify suitable habitat areas, and examine strategic locations for migratory birds on-site. Additionally, a request was made to the quarry management for a pair of binoculars as field equipment and a GIS-compatible map to support future studies.

This first technical visit and field study significantly enhanced the project team’s familiarity with the site and reinforced the feasibility of the project. Based on the data and observations collected, microhabitat design is now on the agenda for the upcoming project phases. Planning has also begun for nature-themed educational activities and the creation of safe zones for children within sustainable habitats.

Activities Conducted:

Marking and photographing the observation areas using GPS
Identifying natural depressions and potential water-holding pits and cavities
Observing the soil structure, slope, and current vegetation
Initial fauna observations (observed bird species: magpie, house sparrow, black-headed bunting, yellow-legged gull, eagle)
On-site meeting with the quarry site manager regarding safety and environmental arrangements
Identifying safe areas for future nature-based educational activities for children

Observations and Notes:

Some natural depressions have the potential to be converted into temporary wetlands with minimal intervention (microhabitat design and long-term monitoring are key goals).
A few bird species are already resident in the area, indicating a positive sign for the project’s ecology-based approach.
Quarry management and field personnel have been very supportive and cooperative.
In some sparsely vegetated areas, planting native reed species is under consideration.
Based on recommendations from the technical team, the first habitat map will be prepared.

Planned Activities:

Presenting the current situation with reference to existing literature (inventory study)
a) Flora
b) Birds
c) Amphibians
d) Reptiles
e) Small mammals
Identifying habitat types according to the EUNIS classification
Monitoring habitat quality
a) Is the area suitable for rehabilitation after quarry deactivation?
b) Are quarry pits and surroundings suitable to become reservoir areas?
Dissemination activities: Sharing project results with local communities to demonstrate that quarries can be transformed into artificial ecosystems, providing sustainable biodiversity solutions