Implementation of project will allow to protect a very unique "Pepper Mountains" reserve with its relict fauna and flora.
Pepper Mountains are located around 1,5 km north-east from Sandomierz, on very steep edge of Vistula Valley. In 1979 reserve in the most valuable parts of this area was created (currently 18,1 hectare, in the near future-23,91 hectare). It was created to protect exposures of Middle-Cambrian deposits, typical pieces of feather grass steppe with ground cherry and few very rare species od dog rose. Xerothermic grass of the reserve is occupied by several tens of thermophilous and xerophilous insects, this area is the only habitat place for few species of spiders, bees and coleopterons in Poland.
Area of Pepper Mountains is the biggest grouping place of dog roses in Europe. Due to cattle and sheeps grazing in 1980s, some of disadvantages changes in ecosystems of xerothermic grass took place, but succession was prevented. At present, becasue of limitation of grazing, reserve area overgrown with trees. The biggest problem is quick overgrowing of black locust (present on around half of the reserve area), birch, aspen, blackthorn and goldenrod (in 2 places). Further expension of there species can lead to changes in natural habitat and loss of unique value of this area.
To prevent such situation, process of overgrowing must be stopped. As the area is located near to historical city Sandomierz (former capitol of Poland) and itself is one of the biggest natural attractions in district, one of activities in project is also to prepare reserve for tourists.
During protection activities robinia will be removed (also most of aspens, birches and pines). Area with goldenrod will be mowed and sprayed with herbicide.
In the all area information boards will be placed, near to reserve borders , rest place for tourist will be built. In the upper border small platform will be placed.
It is also planned to publish guidbook for tourists.