Interview with forest ranger Jef De Winter

What is involved in nature management of this area?

The tasks of a forester could be divided into three main areas: management, recreation and fire prevention.
In heathland management, grazing is the most important measure. The open heathland was created by grazing and has allowed many special species to find a home in the open heathlands. The area is home to a large population of smooth snakes, nightjars and woodlarks. It is also one of the last areas where the moorland butterfly has found shelter. Active management is important for these species. Through grazing, we can also control the dominant pipegrass, reducing the risk of fire and giving other species a chance to survive. Currently, at the direction of ANB, the moorland is grazed by 40 Galloway cattle and 2 sheep herds with 350 sheep each.

We provide signage and infrastructure on the site and take fire prevention measures such as creating firebreaks and manning the fire tower.

What makes this area special for you?

The openness and vastness of the landscape, which is rare in our country. Where, for example, heathland in the north turns into agricultural land of the Steertse Heide. The large open areas are culturally valuable. The heathland system does not stand alone. In the past, the main reason for grazing with sheep was the manure from the sheep to fertilise the fields. It is the combination between villages, fields and moors as an overall system that makes the area interesting. These fields are very important for insectivorous species such as the woodlark and nightjar. We also want to bring back many species of field weeds like poppy and cornflower and dozens of others that have disappeared.

 How does ANB's area connect to other areas?

On the Flemish side, the Klein and Groot Schietveld are important. We are trying to find connections here. For instance, we are working on a protection programme for the heath butterfly. Using ecological stepping stones, we are trying to make connections via the Mastenbos, the Uitlegger and the Klein Schietveld. Specifically, we are creating small biotopes where the heath butterfly feels at home. This is only useful for some flying animals. This is not possible for smaller butterflies or crawling animals.

There is still much to be gained from adjustments on roads where there are many traffic casualties. Dispersal measures such as wildlife tunnels and bridges can make it easier for creeping animals to pass.

What opportunities do you think a National Park offers?

I see opportunities mainly in cooperation between the managers. Because each manager has its own organisational structure, it is difficult to find starting points for managing together. For instance, it would be nice if the area for grazing had no boundaries.

There are also opportunities in spreading recreational flows better. Exercising in nature is good and important for everyone's health. But in a small, busy country, it is important to guard a good balance between nature, recreation and agriculture.

A National Park can focus more on raising awareness. For instance, we can provide recreationists on the routes with information about the natural values of the area. Visitors come here to enjoy the uniqueness of the landscape and realise that this is something valuable and unique. In the moors, many rare species such as the nightjar, moor frog or smooth snake live a hidden life. You rarely come across them, also because they are sensitive to disturbance.

Hopefully, with a National Park, we can highlight the importance of the natural values and the uniqueness of the area.

Do you have questions about the candidacy of Grenspark Kalmthoutse Heide to become a National Park? Or ideas/suggestions on opportunities and collaborations for the master plan? We would love to hear it! Send an e-mail to grenspark.

Or go to www.grensparkkalmthoutseheide.com/en/kandidaat_nationaal_park for more information, frequently asked questions and answers.

The candidacy for recognition as a National Park is/was subsidised under the project call National Parks, commissioned by the Flemish Government.