HELVEX-LIFE project objectives

Here you will find the objectives of the HELVEX-LIFE project:

• Large-scale restoration of 56 ha of open dune restoration (open grassland with Corynephorus and Agrostis species on land dunes) (2330) in a mosaic with Psammophilic heath with Calluna and Genista (2310)
• Restoration of 30 ha of mineral-poor oligotrophic waters of the Atlantic sand flats (3110) and oligotrophic to mesotrophic stillwaters (3130)
• Restoration of 33 ha in mosaic of North Atlantic wet heath with Erica tetralix (4010) - Sloughs in peatlands (7150)
• Restoration of 57 ha in mosaic of dry European heathland (4030) and Psammophilic heathland with Calluna and Genista (2310), interspersed with North Atlantic wet heathland (4010)
• Removal of the exotics American bird cherry, American oak and rhododendron on an area of 60 ha to achieve quality old acid-loving oak woodlands (9190) on the Flemish side and to avoid the restored habitats becoming overgrown with exotics.
• Furthermore, the restoration of the above-mentioned habitats will lead to an increase in Birds Directive species such as nightjar (Caprimulgus Europeaus), woodlark (Lullula arborea) , eared grebe (Podiceps nigricollis) , little grebe (Tachybaptus ruficollis) , black woodpecker (Dryocopus martius) and common tern (Pernis apivorus). It will also benefit species such as smooth snake (Coronella austriaca) and natterjack toad (Bufo calamita), among numerous other nationally threatened species (diurnal butterflies, dragonflies, ground beetles, moths,...).
• To increase the socio-economic potential of the area by:
  ° providing information to visitors, local residents, administrators,... via website and social media, via flyers about the project and Natura 2000, via press,...
  ° installing a watchtower and viewing platform, placing signs in the project area explaining the project,
  ° involving volunteers in nature management.