Polder I im Hochwasserrückhaltebecken Salzderhelden, nature reserve in Lower Saxony, Germany
Polder I im Hochwasserrückhaltebecken Salzderhelden is a protected area in Lower Saxony consisting of grasslands, water surfaces, and reed beds along the Leine river valley. The roughly 523-hectare site features shallow ponds, deeper water barriers, and reed-lined banks that create distinct ecological zones.
The protected area was established in 1995 after historical drainage projects had damaged the region's wetlands. Restoring these landscapes allowed many animal and plant species to survive that would otherwise have disappeared from the area.
The site's name reflects its dual purpose of flood control and nature conservation in the Leine valley. Visitors encounter a landscape shaped by human design to protect both wildlife and nearby settlements.
The site is open to visitors with walking paths and observation points including viewing platforms for watching birds without disturbing wildlife. Water levels change significantly with seasons, so careful footing near the banks is especially important during periods of high water.
The water here remains largely unfrozen even during harsh winters, making it a vital refuge for birds from colder regions when other water bodies freeze over. This natural quality turns the site into a critical survival zone for migratory birds during the coldest months.
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