Ekologiczne i krajobrazowe znaczenie dolin rzecznych w organizacji rekreacyjnej funkcji miasta Poznania

The city of Poznań is distinguished by the wedge and ringshaped system of the green belt which corresponds with the physiographical conditions. The four natural green belts which have survived to the present day were formed in the valleys of the rivers flowing through the city: the Warta (the northern and southern green belt), the Bogdanka (western) and the Cybina (eastern). The valleys meeting in the city centre bring together the flora of the surrounding meadow floodlands, wetlands, municipal forests, city parks and allotments. The advantage of the system based on the river valleys and enriched with natural and artificial lakes is an unbroken continuity and density of the greenery area. This creates favorable conditions for the ecological corridors and influences the boost of the fauna and flora within the city boundaries. Moreover, such a system determines the local microclimate as well as the air circulation in the urban area, improving sanitary and health conditions. As a result, the rich natural and scenic values of the green belts provide excellent conditions for the development of tourism. At the same time, if appropriately developed, the belt areas can become an attractive place for active and passive recreation.