Base de Datos de Proyectos de PDR
Courtyards in Green
Summary
A project which saw the creation or extension of protective borders of indigenous trees & bushes around local farms, called 'shelterbelts'. These 'shelterbelts' are an important characteric landscape element of the Noordoostpolder and Flevoland areas
Background
The Noordoostpolder and the Flevoland polders (land enclosed by dykes) were constructed after 1940 and 1960, with remaining water now forming a shallow articificial lake called the Ijsselmeer. This unique expansive landscape is also characterised by the existence of shelterbelts along roads and farmsteads, forming green islands on agricultural land. However, today many farms do not have any shelterbelts or they are of poor quality, which negatively affects the image and beauty of the landscape.
Objective
The main objective was the preservation and recovery of the farmlands in the polders, through the planting of indigenous trees and bushes (shelterbelts). This of course would haveconsequent ecological benefits for the area. However, the preservation of the natural heritage of the landscape was also an objective, as well as raising awareness locally of the importance of this heritage.
Main activities
Project activities included the development of informational/training material and manuals on the actual work involved; 2) Approaching farmers/owners 3) Organising courses and excursions on how to develop or maintain shelterbelt; 4) Providing horticultural advice to the owners of the land; 5) Providing a financial contribution towards recovery and construction costs; 6) Dissemination of the results of the projects activities; 7) Monitoring targets achieved.
Results & Benefits
As a result of the project there have been many ecological gains, as a direct result of the planting of the trees and bushes themselves. However, the project has also increased awareness of the important contribution shelterbelts make to the characteristic beauty of the landscape. Therefore, both natural and cultural heritage has been preserved. The project has also seen the active cooperation of some 450 farmers in the region, so is an excellent example of community action.
Lessons learnt
It is important to approach farmers/owners directly and specify the support provided, including the courses available, to avoid poor uptake of these training or advisory services.
Project location and other information
Farmland around farms in the Noordoostpolder and Eastern Flevoland
Region
Flevoland
RDP Territory
Netherlands
Total project cost (€)
704,00.00
EAFRD contribution (€)
302,000.00
National contribution (€)
302,000.00
Private contribution (€)
100,000.00
Project website
Contact name
Margriet Brouwer
Telephone
0031-320-294939
Languages for contact
English, Dutch
At a glance
Country
Netherlands
Final beneficiary type
Individual farmers, Other
Budget range
> €500 000
Start date:
01/02/2009
End Date:
31/12/2013
Theme / Measure:
Rural Quality of Life & Economic Diversification
Improving quality of life in rural areas
323. Conservation and upgrading of the rural heritage
Keywords:
Biodiversity, Rural heritage, Landscape, Natural heritage
Last update
01/09/2011