Landform modifications within glaciotectonic landscape due to prolonged mining activity, Muskau Arch (W Poland)

Muskau Arch is a moraine structure formed as a result of the multistage impact of the Scandinavian ice sheet. Between 1920 and 1972 intensive lignite underground and open-cast mining operations took place there. In addition to brown coal, glass sand and ceramic clay deposits were exploited, causing extensive and varied anthropogenic transformations in the entire region. Although mining activities ended approximately 50 years ago, secondary ground deformations and other post-mining processes (e.g. waste dump erosion) continue to this day. Based on the rich geological, mining and cultural heritage a Muskau Arch Geopark that belongs to the UNESCO Global Geopark Network has been established there.

The primary purpose of the landscape transformation map is to document and illustrate the extent and types of anthropogenic  transformations within the “Pustków” field of the old "Babina" lignite mine located in the Muskau Arch. 

The map was developed using free and open-source GIS software QGIS that allows for the integration of various geospatial data thematic layers and provides tools for effective analysis and geo visualization. Open data and data acquired within the NCN financed research projects were used to prepare the landscape transformation map.The concept of the graphical presentation is based on the main map and three subsidiary, insert, maps. The content of the main map includes thematic layers representing: the extent of glaciotectonic transformations, location and types of open-cast and underground mining objects, e.g.: external and internal waste dumps, abandoned pits, anthropogenic lakes, remains of mining infrastructure on the surface such as: railway tracks, shafts, extent of continuous and discontinuous ground deformations from underground mining. In addition, present day land development (built-up area, road network, stream network) against the background of terrain elevation in the form of isolines. Finally, new tourist development of the reclaimed post-mining land is presented.

 The insert maps illustrate: the location of the area of interest in the geographical context, perspective view of the anthropogenically transformed post-mining area based on present-day digital elevation model derived from aerial laser scanning data, 3D visualization of underground workings.

The compiled material is a valuable contribution to the documentation and understanding of the evolution of the post-mining landscape in the Muskau Arch area. The map can be used for educational purposes and to effectively manage the area, as it contains information on the location of mining infrastructure. The map not only shows the mining history of the region, but can help in making decisions about further reclamation of the area and promoting the sustainable development of the Geopark.

The research has been financed from the OPUS National Science Centre projects grant no. 2019/33/B/ST10/02975 and grant no 2021/43/B/ST10/02157.