Restoration of nature Akkerenven Kortenhoeff

Removal of water crassula Akkerenven

Restoration works Akkerenven in Kortenhoeff

Staatbosbeheer started the restoration of the Akkerenven in nature reserve Kortenhoeff this late summer. The work is part of a national approach to restore nature and make it more resilient to the effects of nitrogen emissions: Programmatic Approach to Nitrogen (PAS). Carrying out this measure will allow the fen vegetation with the species that naturally occur here to recover. This will keep Kortenhoeff a healthy and sustainable habitat for the future, with space for nature and recreation.

Removal of water crassula

The Akkerenven has become infested with water crassula. A water plant that does not normally occur in the Netherlands, a so-called 'exotic species'. This invasive plant feels so much at home here that it has formed a large suffocating mat in the fen. This has left no room for plants to grow and various animal species to live and reproduce. Excavating the plant and soil of the Akkerenven by 20 cm will remove the water crassula and soil with roots. This will increase the natural values in the fen. After the work, there will again be plenty of opportunities for native plants to grow. To speed up this process, two species of plants will be grafted into the fens after the works, namely; bank weed and marsh deer hay. These species will compete with water crassula so that the plant will not have a chance to return.

Vulnerable working area

Before the released material is transported to the final processor, it is first stored in a temporary depot set up for this purpose in the grounds. It is strictly forbidden to enter the work area and the depot. Apart from the fact that various dangers are around the corner when digging in the terrain, when entering the work area and/or depot, there is a high risk of contamination with water crassula of the already excavated part of the fen. There is also a chance that plant debris will stick to shoes or clothing, thus contaminating other ditches, pools or fens in the area with water crassula.

During the work, paths may be temporarily closed. The restoration work of the paths and the location of the depot will be carried out as soon as the work is completed and weather conditions allow. Light traffic disruption may occur on Abbey Avenue when the depot is removed. Appropriate traffic measures will be taken where necessary.