Vogelschutzgebiet 'Rieselfelder Münster', Special protection area and Ramsar wetland site in Münster, Germany.
This protected wetland encompasses approximately 4.3 square kilometers of former sewage irrigation fields that have been transformed into diverse habitats including shallow water zones, reed beds, wet meadows, and grasslands supporting over 130 bird species.
Originally established in 1901 as sewage irrigation fields for Münster's wastewater treatment, the area was designated as a European Reserve in 1978 and officially recognized as a Ramsar site in 1983 for its international conservation importance.
The site serves as an important educational and recreational destination for local residents and visitors, offering guided tours, research programs, and birdwatching opportunities that connect the urban community with nature conservation efforts.
Visitors can access the area through designated walking paths, observation huts, and a 12-meter observation tower, with information boards providing guidance on wildlife viewing while maintaining proper distance from protected species.
The transformation from industrial wastewater treatment facility to internationally recognized wetland sanctuary demonstrates successful ecological restoration, creating critical habitat for rare species like the Bartmeise and Zwergdommel that breed exclusively in Westphalia.
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