Pilot action
Wood Mould Boxes for Leipzig’s Citizens Allotments
This pilot action will test the effectiveness of Wood Mould Boxes as a conservation tool in Leipzig's urban allotment gardens. These specially designed wooden structures mimic natural hollow trees and provide essential habitat for saproxylic (deadwood-dependent) insects. While deadwood is a well-known ecological resource, structured substitutes such as Wood Mould Boxes are a relatively new approach in urban contexts. This project aims to explore their potential as an innovative biodiversity measure and assess their impact on insect populations in urban settings.
The scientific component will play a crucial role in data collection and analysis on biodiversity, and a scientific advisor will be selected through a public procurement process. Ideally, this role will be filled by a regional deadwood expert with in-depth knowledge and practical expertise in the study and conservation of saproxylic species.
In collaboration with the Leipzig Allotment Gardeners' Association, we will organise a series of workshops in the main allotment garden areas of Leipzig - including Rosental, West, North and Southeast - where participants will learn about the ecological role of deadwood and actively participate in the assembly and installation of wood mould boxes (appr. 50-200). These events will combine information sessions with hands-on construction using pre-prepared kits, ensuring an engaging and practical experience for participants.
The involvement of local horticultural advisors will be essential, as they will be informed about the background and ecological benefits of the Wood Mould Boxes. This will enable them to act as multipliers, spreading knowledge among tenants and ensuring long-term commitment.
The project will closely coordinate the results with the Federal State of Saxony as the authorising policy authority for the GIFT project. Their involvement is key to scale up successful results and integrate them into regional biodiversity policies.
The scientific component will play a crucial role in data collection and analysis on biodiversity, and a scientific advisor will be selected through a public procurement process. Ideally, this role will be filled by a regional deadwood expert with in-depth knowledge and practical expertise in the study and conservation of saproxylic species.
In collaboration with the Leipzig Allotment Gardeners' Association, we will organise a series of workshops in the main allotment garden areas of Leipzig - including Rosental, West, North and Southeast - where participants will learn about the ecological role of deadwood and actively participate in the assembly and installation of wood mould boxes (appr. 50-200). These events will combine information sessions with hands-on construction using pre-prepared kits, ensuring an engaging and practical experience for participants.
The involvement of local horticultural advisors will be essential, as they will be informed about the background and ecological benefits of the Wood Mould Boxes. This will enable them to act as multipliers, spreading knowledge among tenants and ensuring long-term commitment.
The project will closely coordinate the results with the Federal State of Saxony as the authorising policy authority for the GIFT project. Their involvement is key to scale up successful results and integrate them into regional biodiversity policies.
Addressed policy instruments
The Saxon Biodiversity Programme (SBP)Partners
Aufbauwerk Region Leipzig GmbH
Germany
Leipzig