"The nature reserve and its immediate surroundings are, with Lippischer and Prussian Velmerstot, the highest peaks in the Eggegebirge. The mountain range, which runs in a north-south direction, forms a climate divide with its high precipitation totals (1200 mm per year) and harsh temperatures. Accordingly, higher low mountain ranges already occur here typical animal and plant species. This transitional character contributes to the special diversity of species in the protected area. Representing many other species, the greater fritillary butterfly and the short-winged bush cricket in the ridge areas indicate the special cool-humid conditions.
The mountain heath on the Velmerstot, which is dominated by blueberries and common heather, is one of the few surviving examples of this cultural landscape habitat that once shaped the ridges and was created by grazing. Aside from the far-reaching views of the surrounding area, the special appeal of the landscape aesthetics also results from the embedding of the high heath in a seemingly unspoilt, isolated landscape. Block debris heaps on the eastern slope made up of mixed forests and several abandoned, historic quarries make a significant contribution to this. The expansion of the silicate rock structures was one of the key reasons for protection. In addition to a species-rich moss flora, they are of particular importance as breeding grounds and for overwintering and swarming bats."