Flanders creates more marsh zones in Wellemeersen in Denderleeuw and Liedekerke: "It will become a dragonfly paradise"

Flanders has initiated new nature restoration projects in the Wellemeersen area of Denderleeuw and the Oude Dendermeersen in Liedekerke, building upon interventions made since last summer to enhance the local ecosystem. These efforts have yielded significant results, with the sighting of rare dragonfly species, the black darter and the wandering darter, which are seldom found elsewhere in the region.

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It is very clear that the efforts are effective.

Jorg Lambrechts, a dragonfly expert for Flanders, noted the clear impact of these conservation efforts. "We have had recent observations of the black and the wandering darter," he stated. "This is exceptional for the region. We suspect that the wandering darter is now also reproducing in Denderleeuw and establishing itself permanently." Denderleeuw is emerging as a new hotspot for dragonflies, typically found more commonly in the Kempen region and coastal dunes.

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Especially now that the impact of climate warming is being felt, focusing on 'wetting' is a good idea.

Lambrechts emphasized the importance of increasing wetland areas, especially with the growing effects of climate change. "Especially now that the impact of climate warming is being felt, focusing on 'wetting' is a good idea," he explained. "This area is gradually becoming a true paradise for dragonflies in the region." Shallow water bodies provide an ideal habitat for dragonflies, as they spend most of their lives as larvae underwater. As adults, they feed on soft-bodied insects like mosquitoes, making them beneficial creatures.

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This area is gradually becoming a true paradise for dragonflies in the region.

Flemish Minister Jo Brouns (CD&V) highlighted the tangible results of the restoration work, stating, "Anyone walking in the meadows can see that nature restoration is more than a plan on paper." He added, "We are giving water, plants, and animals more space again and are continuing to build a nature area where walkers and families can also fully enjoy it." The project includes creating additional marsh zones through excavation, installing new weirs, and establishing grazing enclosures. Works are expected to be completed by the end of the year, with temporary diversions for cyclists on the F209 cycle path.

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Anyone walking in the meadows can see that nature restoration is more than a plan on paper.