IVN Nature Walk Vuchtpolder

What is Vucht?
The word 'Vucht' is an old form of 'moisture' or 'wet'. It refers to marshy land that was not suitable for arable farming or habitation. The wet grasslands, called beemden, were used as hay meadows until summer, and as grazing land in late summer. In winter, the beemden were partially submerged, making them uninhabitable for humans but ideal for overwintering waterfowl and waders.

Since 1930, parts of the polder have been raised with sand from the Vrachelse Heide to create suitable agricultural land. Now, many measures are being reversed, and work is underway to promote water saturation and nature restoration. About 80 hectares are being made suitable again as breeding grounds for wading birds. Dippers, weirs, and dams have been installed. Staatsbosbeheer is implementing the project 'Wet Nature Pearl Lage Vuchtpolder'.

In the Waterakkers, on the south side of the polder, rainwater from the city is collected and purified in settling basins and helophyte filters. The water is then directed to the Lage Vuchtpolder. As a result, polluted Markwater no longer needs to be admitted to maintain the water level at the desired height. This is crucial for nature restoration.

Registration is possible until the day of the walk. After registration, you will receive information about the starting point.