The Himmelmoor, located west of Quickborn, is an area full of contrasts. On the one hand, it is one of the largest and most impressive raised bogs in Schleswig-Holstein. On the other hand, the consequences of centuries of peat cutting and industrial peat extraction are clearly visible in this bog. There are only two bogs in Schleswig-Holstein where peat extraction is still taking place today.
Undisturbed raised bogs are now among the rarest and most threatened habitats in Central Europe. In the Himmelmoor, the characteristic plant communities of living raised bogs have been replaced by "secondary" biotopes dominated by birch and moor grass. Due to their remarkable quality, size, and uniqueness, and above all, their special development potential, the remaining raised bog areas nevertheless have a high ecological value. The peripheral areas not affected by peat extraction are therefore registered as a Natura 2000 area.
Flora and fauna:
Remnants of the original raised bog surface can still be found in the Himmelmoor, with characteristic plant species such as sundew, rosemary heath, cranberry, and cross-leaved heather. Rare plant species in the Himmelmoor also include clubmoss and white-beaked sedge.
Due to the area's high structural diversity, many bird species seek out the bog for breeding and foraging. Following the extensive rewetting of the northern part of the bog, common snipe and curlew have settled there. Cranes have also returned. Hen harriers, buzzards, and kestrels are regular visitors. The sight of an adder is a special experience. A stable population of this highly endangered venomous snake still exists in the Himmelmoor.
Hiking and recreation:
The Himmelmoor is particularly attractive due to its size, diversity, and unique character. The area is a destination for numerous visitors, not only on weekends, who seek peace and quiet in the great outdoors. Conflicts with the habitat requirements of rare animal species and the plants, which are often sensitive to trampling, can only be avoided by maintaining a large rest area. Due to waterlogging, entering the moor is very dangerous. Therefore, in your own interest, you should not leave the designated paths.
Peat extraction limited:
In 2004, the Pinneberg district granted permission to continue peat extraction in Himmelmoor, but also limited this time. A gradual withdrawal from the extraction area is planned by the end of 2020. The peat works owner has also committed to implementing extensive measures to renature the state-owned moorland (approximately 410 hectares) during ongoing extraction. The current peat extraction areas are also to be rewatered by the end of extraction.
Natura 2000:
The European Union's Habitats Directive (FFH) and Birds Directive establishes a network of special European areas of conservation known as "NATURA 2000." The goal is to conserve biodiversity, natural habitats, and wild animal and plant species. Along with the Kummerfeld enclosure and parts of the Bilsbek lowlands, the Himmelmoor is designated as part of this European network.