Major Restoration Works Begin in Webbekoms Broek to Combat Drought and Flooding

Extensive natural restoration efforts are underway in the Webbekoms Broek nature reserve, situated between Diest and Halen, to enhance its resilience against drought and flooding. The Agency for Nature and Forest (ANB) has initiated a project to hydrologically restore 72 hectares of the area, focusing on retaining rainwater for longer periods.

Project leader Katleen Vandenbergh explained that historical water management practices in the 19th and 20th centuries involved extensive drainage through canals and straightened watercourses, leading to the current drying out of the area. This situation has been exacerbated by recent dry summers, causing significant water depletion and visible stress on the trees, despite the area's generally wet appearance.

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Er zijn veel grachten gegraven en waterlopen rechtgetrokken. Daarvan zien we nu de gevolgen in de vorm van verdroging.

Minister Jo Brouns, responsible for Environment and Nature, highlighted the project's importance in addressing climate change challenges. He emphasized the need to transform the Flemish landscape into a "large sponge" capable of absorbing and infiltrating water. The restoration will also benefit the area's rich biodiversity, including protected species like the marsh marigold and water strawberry, as well as various marsh and water birds that rely on adequate water levels.

The restoration works are scheduled to last at least two years, with a pause during winter months due to wet and cold conditions. While the site remains accessible, a temporary detour is in place in the Rotbroek area. The total cost of the project is estimated at €1.3 million.

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Met de klimaatverandering is dat actueler dan ooit. De vraag is: hoe wapen je je daartegen? We moeten zorgen dat de Vlaamse bodem 1 grote spons wordt, zodat we ervoor zorgen dat water kan worden opgevangen en kan infiltreren.