Description
Characteristic for this area is a great variation in nature types. Here you can find coniferous forests, bedrock, deciduous forests, fens and alder marshes. Moreover, the area consists of a historical landscape with hazel groves, fields, dry meadows and enclosed pastures. Through considerable work efforts the pastures in the reserve have been restored. Several plant species that benefit from the land being cultivated, and have previously led a modest existence, have now started to flourish again. Around the Moratorp crofter’s holding where cattle are grazing nowadays, grows plenty of common milkwort. The usually rare mezereon is a commonly seen plant in the more forested parts of the reserve.
The variation between cultivated land and forest has resulted in a diverse flora and a rich selection of the Sörmland fauna. Among the typical bird species of the Lina area is the hazelnut loving hawfinch. In the winter, large goldfinch flocks can be seen here.
Situated in this area are Lina clay lakes – a waterfilled former clay pit that once used to harbour a rich birdlife. Restoration work has been done to restore the clay lake to a bird lake once again. Besides its value as a birdlake, there are also plenty of amphibians there, for example great crested newt and smooth newt. The clay lake also attracts many different types of dragonflies. The great crested newt and large white-faced darter are the reason why the area was suggested as a Natura 2000-area.
In year 2001 two wetlands were made in the old crayfish cultivation ponds by the Lina road. The wetlands are, just like Lina Clay Lake, ideal homes for both newts and dragonflies.
The Lina area is frequently used for excursions by the local schools and it is also a popular walking area. Immediately outside the nature reserve in the Northeast direction is the municipality nature school.
Accessibility
There is bus service to the area. Marked paths have been made, as well as riding paths and there are four barbecue places available. Along the Lina road just by the dog racing track there is a parking area with room for about ten vehicles. From the parking area it is easy to follow paths to the wetlands and the bird watching tower.
The purpose of the reserve:
To preserve and secure a valuable nature- and walking area. To restore the meadows and pastures within the reserve and to restore and protect the previously rich bird locations of Lina ponds so that they don’t get choked up.
Decree: Södertälje Municipality, October 6, 1992.
The Swedish Government has also designated Lina nature reserve as a Natura 2000-area.
Acreage: 265 hectare including 7 hectares of water.
Conservation manager: Södertälje Environmental Department.
Restrictions for the public:
Besides regulations and prohibitions in laws and constitutions it is not allowed to:
- In the reserve drive a motorised vehicle or to operate a motorised boat or craft in Lina clay lakes.
- Park a caravan.
- Ride elsewhere than on marked riding paths.
- Deliberately disturb the wildlife.
- Bring an unleashed dog or other unleashed pet.
- Make fire in other places than those provided for this purpose.
- Put up a board, sign, inscription, poster or any similar device.
The picture above: Bird watching tower at Lina lersjö (Lina clay lakes) in the center of the nature reserve. Photography Mikael Lindén.
