More biodiversity at the Putse Moer

The Agency for Nature and Forests and the owners of the private estate de Putse Moer are currently working on increasing the biodiversity of the Putse Moer fen with financial support from the Flemish government and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development.

Restoration of fen banks

Along the banks of the fen, works are being carried out to restore this fen bank. First the overgrowth, except for a few old trees on higher ground, will be removed. Afterwards, the sand mounds that have formed due to the long-term presence of shrubs will be scraped down to the mineral soil. These actions will add value to the spotted whitethroat dragonfly, moor frog, pool frog and natterjack toad. Ploughing will also be carried out in this area to restore wet and dry heathland in the nearby area. The heathland restoration and preservation of the old trees provide an ideal environment for the nightjar.

Stimulating natural forest development

We are also working on renewing the forest stock here. This means, among other things, that the exotic rhododendron will be removed. This plant, which used to be often introduced to demarcate landscapes, today proliferates hard underground. Moreover, its thick leaves continue to block sunlight in summer and winter, causing the soil to suffer from lack of light and acidification. Thus, other plants have no chance to grow.

Through this approach, we are working on biotope improvement. The tall trees can then spread their seedlings and ensure a natural renewal of the forest stock. So we prefer an improved quality of vegetation with more habitat balance.

The rhododendron will be mechanically pulled out and removed by the contractor Heylen. Plants will also remain where they look good aesthetically or emphasise the boundaries of the private area.

Information

This approach and works are coordinated by Landmax, the forest and nature management consultancy.

For more information on the objectives and approach of the works, please contact the consultancy firm Landmax on 014/26 25 00 or at info@landmax.be.

Start of works: September 2021

Expected end date: March 2022