Start of implementation of WFD measures for Paterswoldsemeer phase 3
The Noorderzijlvest Water Authority is working to improve the water quality of Lake Paterswoldsemeer in accordance with the Water Framework Directive (WFD). This is being done in three phases. The measures for the third and final phase will be implemented in early January 2024. These measures were devised in 2020 in co-creation with representatives of residents, recreational users, entrepreneurs, nature conservationists, and recreational fishermen. In recent years, the measures have been further developed and prepared. On Wednesday morning, December 13, the official kick-off for the implementation of the work took place.
More in Balance – 2 (Groningen and Drenthe)
The WFD measures for Paterswoldsemeer phase 3 are being implemented under the project name Meer in Balans – 2 (Groningen and Drenthe). Nature-friendly banks will be created at various locations in Paterswoldsemeer. Water and bank plants will grow here that absorb nitrogen and phosphate from the water. This will improve water quality. It will also create more natural habitat for fish and aquatic animals. To create additional hiding and spawning places for fish and small aquatic animals, fish forests and fish hotels will also be installed in the lake.
Symbolic start of work
Contractor Oosterhuis BV will carry out the work together with subcontractors De Boer & De Groot civil engineering and contractor Van Schaik Ingen. Arcadis will be responsible for management and supervision. In addition, there will be collaboration with the Meerschap Paterswolde and Natuurmonumenten, and representatives from the local community will also be actively involved. Together, they symbolically gave the go-ahead for the work to begin by completing an information board about the measures to be carried out.
"Fulfilling a major task in an area with many diverse interests can be challenging," says Arie van Wijk, executive board member at the Noorderzijlvest Water Authority. "At Paterswoldsemeer, we are proud of the fact that we have done this together with the local community. Together with local residents and stakeholders, we have developed a package of measures that strikes a balance between recreation and nature. We hope that this will lead to a Paterswoldsemeer that people and animals can enjoy for many years to come."
Implementation in 2024
Until the start of the breeding season on March 15, the main focus will be on pruning. When constructing the nature-friendly banks, the current banks will be significantly thinned out so that fewer leaves fall into the water. This will look quite bare for a while, but the banks will quickly become green again. The construction of the nature-friendly banks, fish forests, and fish hotels will be spread out over the year, taking the recreational season into account. In early spring and in December 2024, trees and shrubs will be planted at various locations to compensate for the loss of vegetation.
