Oberlausitzer Heide- and Teichlandschaft grows - Saxony's Largest Bird Sanctuary Expands by 2,300 Hectares by 2026

The Upper Lusatian Heath and Pond Landscape Biosphere Reserve has grown by around 2,300 hectares. This expansion, set for completion by 2026, will bring the total protected area to over 32,000 hectares—making it Saxony's largest bird sanctuary. The update builds on the reserve's original 1996 designation, blending historical traditions with modern conservation efforts.

The reserve's history stretches back to the Middle Ages, when monks first established carp ponds across the region. These waterways became a defining feature of the landscape, shaping local culture and ecology for centuries. The area's character extends beyond ponds, with broad river floodplains, dry dunes, and expansive pine forests adding to its diversity.

The latest expansion covers six municipalities: Hohendubrau, Königswartha, Kreba-Neudorf, Lohsa, Malschwitz, and Spreetal. Among the new additions are former lignite mining sites, including the Lohsa II reservoir and the overburden dumps near Bärwalde. These post-industrial areas are now being repurposed to fit the reserve's landscape-typical uses, such as wetland regeneration and sustainable land management.

The biosphere reserve operates under three distinct zones. Core areas remain strictly protected, while conservation zones allow for controlled human activity. Development zones support sustainable practices, ensuring both nature and local communities benefit from the expansion.

The 2026 expansion will bring the reserve's total area to more than 32,000 hectares. By integrating former mining land and preserving traditional carp breeding, the project aims to restore natural habitats while maintaining regional heritage. The updated boundaries will also strengthen the reserve's role as a key sanctuary for birdlife in Saxony.