Bargerveen’s new milestone in restoration
A new milestone has been reached as the Bargerveen Schoonebeek Executive Committee approves the design for Buffer South.
“This means the project enters a new phase and we can continue our plans for the desired layout for the area,” says project leader Carolien van de Bles from Prolander. An important stakeholder in the region, Prolander is the implementing organization for rural areas in the Dutch provinces of Drenthe and Groningen. Their main focus is on strengthening and connecting natural areas, preferably in combination with other goals such as improving agricultural structure, water storage and recreation.
More plans approved
More plans have also been approved for the improvement of nature and water management and initial work has started in, for example, the Oosteindsche Veen, where trees have been cleared. While work is on hold until mid-July 2024 due to the breeding season, a lot is happening behind the scenes. For example, the design of a fauna passage (passage for reptiles and amphibians) as part of the ecological connecting zone Koelveen.
Unique raised bog area
“All these plans and activities are necessary to preserve Bargerveen as a unique raised bog area. If we do nothing, raised bog and special plants and animals will slowly but surely disappear from the area, ” Carolien explains. “This was an important moment, but we still have a lot to work out in the coming months. Such as a clear implementation plan for the contractor,” Carolien says. “That's pretty complicated and time-consuming for such a large and complex area.”
Joint implemenation is key
Prolander is making agreements about the maintenance of roadsides, trees, quays, banks and recreational elements with local stakeholders. “We can only start working in Buffer South if the water management is in order,” says Carolien. “So, we are working intensively with the Water Board Vechtstromen, ensuring we keep our feet dry.”
Citizens, farmers and local stakeholders all have a say in the design - this is key. The buffer plays a role in water retention and supply for agriculture around the buffer. By jointly implementing both plans, the entire water system can function properly. Keeping the Bargerveen peatlands wet without causing flooding in the surrounding area.
European experience exchange
During the RIWET kick-off and first Exchange of Experience Workshop on 25th – 27th June, the consortium will visit the peatland area of Bargerveen to discover more about the Buffer South project and exchange experiences. “We’re very much looking forward to meeting our European partners and hearing how other regions are tackling the challenges we are all facing in terms of keeping our rivers and wetlands healthy for future generations,” Carolien concludes.