Nature restoration projects underway in the Netherlands and Belgium

Nature restoration projects are underway in the Netherlands and Belgium to enhance biodiversity and connectivity between habitats.

In the Lemelerberg region of the Netherlands, Stichting Landschap Overijssel has resumed work to strengthen the heathland landscape. As part of a long-term project commissioned by the province of Overijssel to meet Natura 2000 goals, approximately 40 hectares of forest will be phased into heathland between 2025 and 2028. This initiative aims to connect fragmented heathlands to allow species such as insects, reptiles, and butterflies to migrate and reproduce more easily. Monitoring has already shown an increase in nightjar and woodlark territories in areas where forest was previously replaced by heath.

In Belgium, the Vlaamse Landmaatschappij (VLM) is working on the Parmoes nature reserve in Hoeilaart as part of the IJsevallei land development project. Workers are removing approximately 9,000 tons of silt from two former fish farming ponds that had become biologically dead. The project, costing 1.17 million euros in total, aims to create green stepping stones between larger natural areas. The restoration includes the development of new paths to allow local residents to enjoy the improved biodiversity.