Risk assessment on dynamic geomorphosites: A case study of selected abandoned pits in South-Moravian Region (Czech Republic)

Abstract

In recent decades, geomorphological heritage, its protection and management has acquired more attention and particular conservation measures are being continuously implemented in local and regional policies or structures. Despite this, some threats may occur resulting from the multiple uses (e.g. tourism and recreation), land-use changes or human society demands on particular geomorphosites or in their vicinity. Thus, the identification, assessment and management of these threats, risks and conflicts of interest should become an integral part of every geoconservation effort. For this purpose, a two-level risk assessment is applied to identify and evaluate the level and intensity of threats. The first level is based on the already used criteria within geomorphosite approach and corresponds to the degradation risk evaluation. The second level is represented by the Risk Assessment Matrix, which is commonly used in regional development or project planning and may be viewed as a useful tool for assessing the threats to sites as well. Using both approaches provides a complex view of the threats and allows for the proposal of particular measures that could contribute to the balancing of the different demands and more effective geoconservation management on a specific site. The study is focused on dynamic (active) geomorphosites, namely abandoned sand, clay or loess pits which possess a high intrinsic value and offer numerous geosystem services. Before the proper assessment of the risks and threats, geosystem services of the abandoned pits are identified and classified proving that these sites are of great geoconservation importance. Based on the geosystem services analysis and risk assessment, geoconservation measures are proposed and sustainable use of these sites is designed.