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National dune restoration

In recent years, Dutch dunes have suffered considerable damage due to desiccation, eutrophication and a lack of dynamism. The diversity of flora and fauna in the dunes continues to decline. Since the 1980s, Staatsbosbeheer and other parties have been independently carrying out restoration projects. For example, through turf cutting in dune slacks, environmentally friendly water collection and the filling in of ditches. These measures suffice for tackling problems locally, but are no remedy on a larger scale.

Helmgras aan duinvoetRestoration on national level

As part of the LIFE dune restoration project, Staatsbosbeheer and partners collectively tackle dune areas at a national level. LIFE is a European Commission subsidy. Between 2005 and 2010, 4,700 hectares of dunes will be restored. This area is representative for the total Dutch dune area.

Innovative methods

The LIFE dune project applies innovative methods. Grazing approaches will be expanded and alongside turf cutting and mowing, burning will also be applied in order to rejuvenate vegetation. Furthermore, the LIFE dune project will attempt to stimulate the aeolian movement of sand in certain areas.

Location

There are three stretches of dunes along the Dutch coast: the limestone deficient dunes of the Wadden Islands and the area to the north of Bergen aan Zee; the limestone-rich, heavily visited dunes of the mainland coast; and the limestone-rich, less touristy dunes of the delta area.

As part of the LIFE dune project, Staatsbosbeheer will be tackling eight areas from the three stretches of dunes: three Wadden Islands, three mainland coast areas and two delta areas.

  • Wadden Islands: Texel, Vlieland, Terschelling
  • Mainland Coast: Hollands Duin (Noordwijk, Coepelduynen, Wassenaar)
  • Delta Area: Kop van Schouwen, Manteling van Walcheren

Example

LIFE dune can act as an example to other restoration projects in the Netherlands and Europe. The project costs 5 million Euros, for which LIFE will provide 2 million in subsidies. The other 3 million will be paid for by Staatsbosbeheer and partners.